Lacson urges PNP, AFP to stay professional amid fake news

Former national police chief and senator Panfilo Lacson advised the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to remain professional and loyal to their duties amid calls for partisan activity following the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

Lacson emphasized in a news release on Saturday that PNP and AFP personnel should verify information, especially from social media sources due to the prevalence of fake news.

He stressed the importance of fact-checking before acting on reports of partisan activities during his campaign sorties in Tacloban City, Leyte.

Lacson, who previously served as head of the PNP and was part of the Philippine Constabulary in the AFP, noted that existing laws against cyberlibel may need strengthening.

He said he is considering legislation to penalize the spread of fake news more effectively, citing its harmful impact on culture and societal norms.

The former senator highlighted the urgency for stricter measures given Duterte's popularity and fanatical followers.