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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider NBI vows to prosecute those spreading fake news

NBI vows to prosecute those spreading fake news

Published Mar 20, 2020 12:00 am
By Jeffrey Damicog National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Eric Distor vowed on Friday (March 20) to file charges against those found spreading fake news concerning the deadly coronavirus disease (COVID-19). (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO) (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO) “Director Distor assures the public that our government, the NBI in particular, will take all the necessary steps to protect its citizens against the proliferation of fake news and prosecute those responsible for it,” the NBI said in a statement. Distor has already activated NBI units “to investigate the source of fake news especially those reports that sow chaos and will lead to unrest and anarchy in the country.” These NBI units include the Cyber Crime Division (CCD), the Digital Forensic Division, and other investigative units including the Regional Operations Service. The NBI said the results of their investigation will be submitted to Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra. Distor admitted that the investigation into the fake news was prompted by an alleged report that stated the US State Department warned that looting incidents will take place during the month-long lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. The NBI chief revealed that he reached out to the US Embassy which denied that the US State Department made such statements. “All these reports baseless and totally untrue,” Distor said. “The US has clarified it releases information and advisories only through its official media platforms and website.” Meanwhile, Distor has asked the NBI’s International Operations Division to investigate this and is now gathering relevant data and other information for possible case build-up and filing of cases against the perpetrators of fake news. Distor also invited the public to seek clarification from the NBI concerning any reports about government efforts against COVID-19.
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