PCG spox: Social media influencers lead WPS fake news

Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), identified social media influencers as the primary "initiators" of fake news and disinformation concerning the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

These influencers create and disseminate false narratives that significantly shape public perception, forming a crucial part of a coordinated disinformation campaign over the last two years.

Tarriela highlighted that these influencers are chosen for their substantial follower counts and public recognition, making their posts easily shareable and amplifiable.

He further detailed a four-tiered system of disinformation, where "initiators" craft misleading content, which is then amplified by "disseminators."

These disseminators are described as "soulless accounts" or newly created profiles lacking any identifiable networks, solely dedicated to spreading the initiators' false narratives.