Bulacan officials to combat ‘fake news’, urge public for information verification
Cooltura by Jeoff “Jopay” Solas
CITY OF MALOLOS – In response to the alarming unverified posts on social media, Bulacan Vice Governor Alexis C. Castro is urging the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to strengthen information monitoring and verification.
Castro convened the Committee on Peace and Order and the Committee on Communication, Information, Technology, and Mass Media on February 13, 2025 to address the spread of misinformation. The hearing, which was held at the Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Hall in the Capitol, included individuals involved in spreading false information.
Castro stressed the importance of verifying information before sharing it. He also stated that many posts lack police or official government verification, which can cause fear, anger, misaccusation, and community chaos.
In accordance with this, Vien Arceo of Pulilan and Christian Daet of Bulakan were invited to the hearing for posting unverified crime reports on Facebook, including claims that “It is no longer safe in Bulacan”. These posts caused public alarm despite their intent to raise awareness, according to Bulacan-PNP Provincial Director PCol. Satur L. Ediong.
Ediong clarified that many reported crimes were untrue or created for content. Verified incidents are being addressed, with arrests and charges filed. He highlighted the police’s efforts to combat crimes such as motorcycle theft and kidnapping rumors.
Castro cited laws against spreading false information, including Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, and the Special Laws on False Information. He urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation, as it can ruin lives, and to promote truth instead of falsehoods.
Provincial Administrator Antonia V. Constantino, board members, Bulacan Press Club President Omar Padilla, and representatives from various agencies also attended the hearing.
The Bulacan government assures the public that efforts to maintain order and safety are ongoing, despite the false reports. They urge citizens to verify information before sharing it to prevent panic and ensure community safety. #