Metro Manila, Philippines – The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) has asked the Department of Justice to investigate a Facebook page and posts accused of spreading false information about the energy situation, as the government steps up efforts to curb disinformation.
In a statement, PCO Secretary Dave Gomez said the move was ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and forms part of a broader campaign against fake news, particularly during what officials described as a period of energy uncertainty.
“Today, upon the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Presidential Communications Office is giving teeth to our warning,” Gomez said on Tuesday, April 7.
The PCO referred at least three posts for investigation, including content allegedly published by the Facebook page “Malasakit News Pilipinas,” which authorities said contained fabricated claims intended to cause public panic and confusion.
Among the posts cited were a supposed “energy lockdown” meant to push consumers into buying solar panels, a fabricated fuel shortage designed to trigger panic buying of gasoline, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas, and a false report about a COVID-19 “Cicada variant” leading to an emergency lockdown.
“All these posts are blatant lies and fabrications that fall under the definition of false news,” Gomez said.
The PCO said the posts were flagged by its Anti-Fake News Desk, created following the launch of “Oplan Kontra Fake News” in March The agency has submitted the results of its initial review to the DOJ for further investigation and the possible filing of charges.
Gomez warned that the publication of false news is punishable under the Revised Penal Code, which carries penalties of up to six months imprisonment, with heavier penalties if committed online under the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
He reiterated the administration’s “zero tolerance” policy against individuals who deliberately spread disinformation, especially on issues affecting energy security.
“Any attempt to mislead the public about energy security, supply, or pricing to sow confusion will be treated as a serious offense,” Gomez said.
The PCO also warned that those spreading false information involving the First Family may face legal action.
“No one will be spared. Basta mapatunayan naming fake news, we will file charges against them,” he said.
[Translation: No one will be spared. Once we prove it is fake news, we will file charges against them.]
