Palace warns against fake news surge before elections

On Wednesday, Malacañang warned the public to remain vigilant against a potential surge in fake news as the 2025 midterm elections near, urging citizens to avoid becoming 'keyboard warriors' spreading disinformation.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro emphasized during a press briefing that constructive criticism is welcome but fake news peddlers must be guarded against, reminding voters not to fall for malicious online content designed to sway public opinion through baseless attacks.

Castro warned of the long-standing issue of disinformation used to discredit the government and the President, urging citizens to exercise caution in their digital interactions and refrain from selling the country's interests through irresponsible online behavior.

She also highlighted a Senate inquiry revealing that the Chinese Embassy paid Philippine-based Infinitus Marketing Solutions to create troll farms to spread pro-China narratives under fake social media profiles.

Malacañang declared May 12, 2025, as a holiday for Election Day.