The Philippine National Police (PNP) is taking action against a fake social media post that claims police and military chiefs are pressuring President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to step down. PNP Chief, Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., has directed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to identify the source of the post and put an end to the dissemination of false information.
According to PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo, the post was made by a blogger who claims to be a former general. Fajardo emphasized that the blogger’s claim is baseless and untrue. She reassured the public that the PNP is a professional institution that remains loyal to the Constitution and is apolitical.
To combat the spread of fake information, the PNP will pursue criminal charges against the individual responsible for circulating the post. Fajardo also urged the public to refrain from sharing the post, as they too could be held accountable for spreading false information.
In a show of solidarity, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. issued a statement reaffirming the AFP’s unwavering loyalty to the Constitution and its commitment to fulfilling its mandate. Col. Xerxes Trinidad, the AFP Public Affairs chief, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the AFP remains dedicated to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and upholding democratic principles.
These statements come in the wake of rumors about a destabilization plot by retired military officers, which surfaced in November. However, the AFP was quick to dispel these rumors, clarifying that Gen. Brawner’s speech during a change of command ceremony in Western Mindanao was simply a reminder for military personnel to remain professional and loyal to their oath to protect the people and the State.
In response to the situation, the PNP has ordered intensified cyber patrolling to identify the source of the fake post and prevent the spread of misinformation. This proactive approach demonstrates the PNP’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of information circulating on social media platforms.
Misinformation and fake news have become significant challenges in today’s digital age. The spread of false information can have serious consequences, including social unrest and the erosion of trust in institutions. By taking decisive action to address this issue, the PNP is sending a clear message that it will not tolerate the dissemination of fake news.
It is crucial for individuals to exercise caution and critical thinking when consuming and sharing information online. Verifying the credibility of sources and cross-checking information with reputable news organizations can help prevent the unwitting spread of misinformation.
In conclusion, the PNP’s order for intensified cyber patrolling is a necessary step to combat the spread of fake news. By actively addressing this issue, the PNP is demonstrating its commitment to upholding the truth and protecting the public from false information. It is essential for individuals to be vigilant in discerning reliable sources and to refrain from sharing unverified information, as it can have far-reaching consequences.
Source: The Manila Times
