Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go urged Filipinos to exercise their freedom of expression responsibly amid circulation of fake news and disinformation in social media as the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to hit the country. 

In a statement, Go, chairman of the Senate health and demography committee, explained that he has nothing against free expression of ideas and that this government would always protect the rights and freedoms of Filipinos. 

He, however, reminded the public that such rights and freedoms entail corresponding responsibilities as upright citizens of this country. 

Go, who has been a victim of fake and malicious news on several occasions, said that letters were sent to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) requesting the agency to conduct investigations on certain social media posts that may fall under possible violations of the Cybercrime law, particularly libel, and other applicable laws. 

“In this time of crisis, we are busy working to protect the welfare, interest and lives of the Filipinos. We’re just serving our fellow Filipinos. But others are also busy to malign , wasting their time spreading fake news, lies and add problems to the nation,” he said in Filipino. 

He also told critics that they are allowed to voice out their opinions as long as they are not spreading lies to inflict harm on the rights of others and are not violating any laws. 

“To the critics, if you’re telling the truth, continue with it. We respect your rights and opinion. If you think you’ve not done any illegal, you have nothing to worry and fear,” he explained. 

As for those who would be proven to have broken the law, Go said that they should be ready to face the consequences of their actions. 

“If you are aware that you’re lying and you just want to malign your fellowmen by means of spreading fake news, you should answer for your sins if it will be proven that you’ve violated the law for what you have done,” he said. 

“The court will be the one to decide on whether your accusations against me is in violence of the Cybercrime Law, laws on libel and other laws,” he added. 

If asked by authorities, Go urged accused individuals to cooperate with the investigation as the law has safeguards to protect their rights. 

“Just answer the charges against you as the law guarantees to protect your rights as a person,” he stressed. 

“Just to remind you, I have also a family and children that get hurt with your lies against me and others who render services for the greater good of their fellow Filipinos,” he stressed. 

A college student was reported to have been subpoenaed by the NBI on Friday after sharing a post on social media possibly containing fake news against the senator.