Malacañang backs bill to penalize false info spread

Malacañang expressed support on Tuesday for a bill aimed at penalizing the spread of false information.

Palace Press Officer and PCO Undersecretary Claire Castro emphasized that even without urging from the Palace, there is a desire to ban fake news, noting that former Senate President Tito Sotto plans to push for such legislation if elected under the administration-backed party.

Castro suggested registering all content creators as a measure to curb misinformation and disinformation, while also acknowledging the need for lawmakers to study the full scope of fake news, including defining what constitutes 'fake news' and setting limitations.

The PCO, now led by Jay Ruiz, plans to intensify efforts against fake news on social media.

Castro stated that the current administration will ignore 'nonsense' criticisms and denied that President Marcos Jr. initiated negative campaigning, adding that both she and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin have criticized former President Rodrigo Duterte for spreading false information.

Media practitioners fear that a potential ban on fake news could impede freedom of speech and press freedom.