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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Palace denies report of alleged imminent lockdown over COVID-19

Palace denies report of alleged imminent lockdown over COVID-19

Published Mar 22, 2020 12:00 am
By Argyll Cyrus Geducos  Malacañang denies reports circulating online that a nationwide lockdown will be declared next week due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis. Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo (OPS / MANILA BULLETIN) Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo
(OPS / MANILA BULLETIN) Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo made the statement after a screenshot of a message claiming that Malacañang will be declaring a lockdown spread like wildfire on social media. The message also claimed that food will be rationed every three days as wet markets will be closed to stop people from going around. In a text message, Panelo advised the public to be more discerning when using social media as it denied the lockdown rumors. "Absolutely not true. Stop believing false news and information," he said Sunday evening. Malacañang has slammed the sudden surge of fake news online as the government contains the threat of COVID-19. Panelo said people should not readily believe what they read on social media, adding that false information will only create panic, confusion, and fear. "We denounce the proliferation of such false narratives," he said. "We encourage our people to keep calm and stay vigilant. Rest assured that the government is here to protect everyone and is working for their safety and well being." The Philippine National Police (PNP) likewise warned the public that they will hunt down and press charges against those spreading fake news amid the Luzon enhanced community quarantine.
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