06/07/2026
Forwarded:
Today I would like to speak to you about something that affects all of us, especially those who use Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms.
Many people ask, “Why do good people, even well-educated and intelligent people, sometimes believe things that are not true?”
One reason is something called an algorithm.
An algorithm is simply a computer program. It watches what we click, read, watch, like, comment on, and share. Then it keeps showing us more of the same.
Think of it this way. Suppose you always order fish at your favorite restaurant. After a while, the waiter assumes that fish is all you like and keeps recommending fish every time you visit.
Social media works in much the same way.
If you often watch videos supporting one political opinion, it will keep sending you similar videos. If you frequently click on angry or sensational posts, it will give you even more of them. Slowly, without realizing it, you begin to see only one side of an issue.
Then it becomes easy to think, “Everyone agrees with me.”
But that may not be true. We may simply be seeing what the algorithm has decided to show us.
My dear people, remember this: the algorithm is not searching for the truth. It is designed mainly to keep us watching, clicking, and reacting. It cannot tell the difference between truth and falsehood.
That is why we should never believe something simply because it appears again and again on our screen. Repetition does not make something true.
As followers of Jesus, we must allow God’s Word, not social media, to form our conscience. Sacred Scripture reminds us: “The simple believe everything, but the prudent give thought to their steps” (Proverbs 14:15). And Saint John tells us: “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1).
Today we can apply those words this way: Do not believe every post. Check it. Verify it. Pray about it. Ask whether it is true before believing it or sharing it.
This is especially important in our country today. False information, manipulated videos, and fake news can easily create anger, hatred, and division. Families argue. Friendships are broken. Communities become polarized.
As Christians, we are called to be instruments of truth, peace, and unity—not instruments of lies, hatred, or division.
So I ask each one of you:
Before sharing a post, ask yourself: Is it true? Is it fair? Will it help build peace and understanding? Would Jesus be pleased if I shared this?
If the answer is no or if you are not sure, it is better not to share it.
My dear brothers and sisters, let us remain humble. Listen respectfully to different viewpoints. Read from reliable sources. Be willing to admit that we do not know everything and that we can sometimes be mistaken.
Above all, let us ask not only, “What is trending?” or “What is popular?” but, “What is true in the eyes of God?”
May our minds always be guided by truth, our consciences formed by the Gospel, and our hearts led by Jesus Christ, who said: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).
May the Holy Spirit give us wisdom to recognize the truth, the humility to accept it, and the courage to live it.
May God bless you all.
Respectfully yours in Christ,
✠ Alberto S. Uy
Archbishop of Cebu
