PNP warns public vs misinformation as impeachment trial begins
As the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte started on Monday, July 6, the Philippine National Police (PNP) urged the netiznes to be wary of misinformation and in engaging in online incitement that could trigger violence or undermine public order.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said he already directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group and intelligence units to strengthen monitoring of online activities that may incite violence, target government institutions, or threaten public officials in connection with the impeachment proceedings.
“Disinformation that seeks to incite violence or undermine our democratic institutions is a direct threat to public safety. The PNP is utilizing 24/7 cyber patrolling to identify and neutralize malicious narratives intended to deceive the public,” Nartatez said.
The Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, is set to open the trial of Vice President Duterte on Monday, July 6.
Around 6,000 police were deployed personnel around the Senate complex and other key areas to secure the proceedings and manage anticipated public demonstrations.
Nartatez said intelligence monitoring has also been intensified to detect online calls for violence, attacks against government institutions, and threats directed at public officials involved in the impeachment process.
He said local police commanders were also tasked to promptly validate and address viral false information that could create panic or provoke disorder in their respective areas of responsibility.
“We urge the public to be discerning. Before sharing any information regarding these proceedings, verify it through official channels to avoid becoming a tool for those who wish to disrupt the rule of law," Nartatez noted.
Meanwhile, he underscored that the PNP will remain politically neutral throughout the impeachment proceedings and will focus solely on maintaining peace, protecting democratic institutions, and ensuring the safety of all citizens.