Robredo: Use internet responsibly for a peaceful revolution

MANILA, Philippines — With the coexistence of the internet and millennials, Vice President Leni Robredo urged the youth to protect the interest of the nation country through peaceful means.

In her speech at the 17th EDSOR Peace Congress, Robredo told young people to not resort to the brutality of warfare.

“I believe that modern technology puts you in the perfect position to protect the greater good. Most importantly, I believe that you are ready to fight this fight, to answer the urgent call for nation-building, no matter how young you are,” the vice president said.

“But when I say 'fighting the fight,' I don’t mean that literally. Our democracy has no room for political intimidation or violence. Progress can always be achieved peacefully,” she added.

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Robredo, while reluctant to take an opposition role, is now the leading voice critical of President Rodrigo Duterte's policies since quitting the Cabinet.

She said a problem with today's technology is it enables people on the internet who "cannot seem to discern lies from truth.”

Interestingly, her camp earlier cried foul over accusations on her alleged pregnancy and the plan to oust Duterte based on a so-called email trail tagged as "Lenileaks" by Duterte's supporters.

Aside from the internet, Robredo mentioned the alarming number of deaths since Duterte launched the campaign against illegal drugs in July.

“We are faced with issues of terrific scale and complexity. But violence is not the right response to poverty and inequality. Bloodshed will not solve crime and injustice,” Robredo added, calling for a stop in violence.

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“Peace may not give us quick answers, but it requires us to think carefully before we act. Peace urges us to consider the welfare of our world, to respect the fundamental rights of every human being, and to find solutions that will work in the long term. Peace challenges us to use modern technology for the larger good,” Robredo added.

Before ending her speech, Robredo challenged millennials to be make a difference by using modern technology wisely.

“Use this technology so you will be responsible stewards of the environment, and yes, of human life as well.  But to make that possible, you must first be stewards of peace. Only then can you make real change happen.”