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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Palace urges voters: Reject fake news; assures readiness for May 12 polls

Palace urges voters: Reject fake news; assures readiness for May 12 polls

Published May 7, 2025 01:11 pm

At A Glance

  • The Palace official reminded voters that making informed choices begins with verifying information.
Malacañang has warned voters against falling for disinformation as the May 12 midterm elections approach, urging the public to be vigilant, responsible, and to avoid aiding those who spread falsehoods online.

Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro (RTVM Screenshot)

In a press briefing on Wednesday, May 7, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the administration has long been the subject of fake news and appealed to voters not to let such tactics influence their decisions at the polls.

"Unang-una po ay maging mapagmatyag at huwag niyo pong ibenta ang inyong dignidad (First of all, be vigilant and do not sell your dignity)," she said.

"Huwag ibenta ang bansa sa pamamagitan ng pagiging keyboard warrior at ang tanging trabaho o goal ay gumawa ng fake news (Do not sell the country by becoming a keyboard warrior whose only goal is to spread fake news)," she added.

The Palace Press Officer said voters should learn to distinguish between legitimate criticism against the government and deliberate disinformation.

She likewise asked the public to avoid consuming or spreading content aimed purely at attacking the administration without factual basis.

"Maaari pong bumatikos, maaari pong punahin ang ating pamahalaan hangga’t may ebidensya. Hindi po ‘yan isinasara ang pinto (People are allowed to criticize and question the government as long as there is evidence. The door is not closed to that)," Castro said.

The Palace official reminded voters that making informed choices begins with verifying information.

"Labanan po natin ang fake news para kayo po ay magkaroon ng magandang desisyon sa Mayo 12 (Let us fight fake news so you can make a good decision on May 12)," she said.

Election security, protection in place

Castro said the government is fully prepared to ensure orderly and safe elections, with the Department of Education (DepEd) deploying its Election Task Force nationwide starting Sunday, May 11, for real-time monitoring and incident response.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara has confirmed that funding has been allocated for teacher honoraria, as well as the cleanup and preparation of polling precincts.

She added that DepEd has finalized its partnership with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to provide security, legal, and medical support to public school teachers serving on election day.

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines and the Public Attorney’s Office will also be on standby to provide free legal aid to teachers facing harassment or legal threats.

"Makakasama ng mga guro at kawani ang buong puwersa ng pamahalaan. Bantay, alalay, at proteksyon ang hatid sa ating mga guro ng bayan (The entire government force will be with our teachers and personnel — offering vigilance, support, and protection)," Castro said, citing Angara.

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