Why Do So Many Pinoys Believe in Tallano Gold, Anti-Vax, and Other Conspiracy Theories?

Why do conspiracy theories thrive—and why do so many Filipinos believe them? In this episode, Regine Cabato sits down with journalist Sofia Tomacruz and sociologist Nicole Curato, co-authors of How Conspiracy Theories Harm Deliberative Democracy. They talk about everything from Marcos-era myths to modern-day TikTok videos, why these stories resonate even with people who see themselves as “critical thinkers,” and how they pose real risks to democracy. The conversation also highlights lessons for truth advocates, showing how understanding the participatory ways misinformation spreads can help them engage more effectively and encourage thoughtful public dialogue.

This episode is produced by Hannah Grace and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.

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