The GCO (Guidance and Counselling Office) of the University of the Cordilleras with the help of the UC Interns organised a seminar entitled, “Mirrors and Mask: Navigating Digital Deception and Finding True Self-Worth”, an informative and engaging seminar that emphasises on the dynamics of online deception and its prevalence.
This seminar is purposefully enacted to help raise awareness of its effects on mental well-being. Addressing the topic proved essential as students, unfortunately, and overall well-being. Digital deception, including misinformation, hacking, and online manipulation, undermines trust in institutions and social interactions. This seminar aligns with the Social Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and strong institution), wherein it supports access to information and protecting fundamental freedoms. Also, in a world increasingly influenced by social media, filters, and online personas, digital deception can distort personal identity and security. This seminar aligns as well with the Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well
being], which aims to promote mental health and well-being. This topic directly addresses the need to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and mental wellness in the digital age.
RA No. 10173 also known as the Data Privacy Act of 2012 is a law that protects one’s data by regulating its collection, processing, storage, and sharing. Focusing on data privacy and how to protect data. This topic was provided by Atty. Rane Ramos in keeping the students educated in terms of their online
safety. On the other hand, a comprehensive discussion on self worth was given by Dr. Irene Alcantara, focusing her own experience on self-worth and how we can truly value ourselves. Her relatable delivery of her own experiences regarding catfishing caught the attention of the students and intrigued them with her questions. She reminded the participants to take good care of their mental health, as it reflects who they are and how they see themselves.
The seminar was attended with a total of fifty students from different departments. This diverse group of attendees created a dynamic environment for learning, with people from various backgrounds coming together to deepen their understanding of online deception and finding one’s self worth. As the seminar ended, it was clear that the valuable insights shared during the duration of the seminar had sparked meaningful discussions and inspired a collective commitment to making school and communities safer against the threat of catfishing on one’s privacy and self worth.
