TOOL T-16 | Monitoring Tool | Module 4: Communication & Information Sharing

Rumor & Misinformation Tracker

WHEN TO USE Whenever an informal narrative circulating in the community diverges significantly from accurate project information.

How to Use It

1. Establish monitoring channels: regular informal conversations in communities, relationships with barangay focal persons, and social media monitoring if applicable.

2. When a rumor is identified, log: date, source, content, geographic spread, and potential harm if unaddressed.

3. Assess accuracy: is the rumor false, partially true, or based on a legitimate misunderstanding?

4. Develop a plain-language response that addresses the specific concern underlying the rumor, not just a denial.

5. Distribute the response through the same channels the rumor is traveling.

6. Follow up to verify whether the response reached those who heard the rumor.

7. Log the response and outcome in the tracker.

Purpose

To monitor informal narratives, rumors, and misinformation about the project, and to provide a structured process for responding to them. Rumors fill the gap when official information is absent, unclear, or not trusted.

Field Rationale

At multiple sites, rumors about land acquisition areas, environmental impacts, and compensation circulated for weeks or months without correction. By the time project teams responded, the misinformation had become a source of organized opposition. Early detection and response are far more effective than late correction.