PNP intensifies online monitoring vs fake news during assemblies

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is intensifying its online monitoring to counter the spread of misinformation during three-day assemblies.

PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group to identify creators and disseminators of fake news.

This directive follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s order, relayed through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to maintain peace and order.

The PNP has flagged false posts alleging crowd buildup and unrest near Chino Roces Bridge in Manila, which ground units have confirmed to be untrue.

Lt. Gen. Nartatez emphasized that while freedom of speech is respected, it does not extend to posting fabricated claims meant to mislead the public.

He warned that some online actors appear to be intentionally stoking tension, with initial indications of coordinated or bot-generated posts under verification.