Fake 'lockdown': PNP to go after spreaders of false energy-related info
by Ian Laqui · philstarMANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday, April 6, said it will pursue criminal charges against individuals spreading false claims about an alleged "energy lockdown," as authorities move to contain misinformation amid the fuel crisis.
PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. warned that those behind the spread of "harmful disinformation" would be tracked down and charged.
"Hahabulin natin at kakasuhan kung sino man ang mga nasa likod ng pagpapakalat ng maling impormasyon," Nartatez said. (We will go after and charge whoever is behind the spread of false information.)
The PNP issued the warning following circulating posts claiming that the government would impose an "energy lockdown" due to soaring fuel prices and tensions in the Middle East.
RELATED: Palace warns vs fake ‘energy lockdown’ claims, eyes charges vs spreaders
Monitoring, enforcement stepped up
Nartatez said police units nationwide have been directed to use official social media accounts to quickly debunk false claims and provide verified updates in real time.
The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group has also been tasked to intensify monitoring of online platforms to identify accounts involved in disinformation campaigns.
The police chief said misinformation on fuel supply and pricing could trigger unnecessary panic and undermine public confidence.
"The situation in the Middle East is a serious matter and any attempt to exploit it to trigger unwarranted panic among our kababayan must be addressed and dealt with. We will not allow this," he said.
PCO, DOJ coordination. The statement came after the Presidential Communications Office warned about false "energy lockdown" claims and said it is coordinating with the Department of Justice to pursue cases against those spreading deceptive information or attempting to manipulate markets.
Authorities have urged the public to verify information before sharing it, especially as global oil market volatility continues to affect local fuel prices.