MANILA – Malacañang has called for stricter action against individuals spreading misinformation and disinformation, emphasizing the need for legal consequences.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, speaking to reporters on Thursday, warned of the “devastating” impact of fake news, which continues to spread rapidly online.
“It’s not just the Philippines—this is a global issue. The damage is severe, and those responsible must be prosecuted,” Bersamin said at a Palace event.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is currently tracking at least 20 individuals suspected of running a coordinated misinformation campaign, particularly targeting government officials. With assistance from Interpol, authorities are also working to identify overseas-based perpetrators, though legal hurdles remain, especially in countries like the United States, where libel is a civil, not criminal, offense.
Bersamin assured that the Palace would let the NBI take the lead in enforcement.
“We leave it to the experts. If we interfere, we risk contradictions or misinterpretations,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Presidential Communications Office is intensifying efforts to counter fake news, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive.
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