Two additional video bloggers are facing complaints for allegedly spreading false information related to the upcoming elections via social media.
Major Catherine Dela Rey, spokesperson for the 10th District Police Station, told reporters that the two suspects are among several individuals linked to the dissemination of a purported memorandum during the “Alliance of New Philippines” event held on February 15 in Carmen, North Davao Province. The memorandum allegedly instructed police personnel to wear red clothing.
Dela Rey declined to disclose the identities of the two bloggers, who have been charged with violations of Section 154 of the Revised Penal Code (illegal use of publishing means and illegal speech) and Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act (Republic Act No. 10175).
On May 6, PRO-XI Regional Director Brigadier General Leon Victor Rosete confirmed in a video statement that the Ecoland Police Station, in coordination with the Regional Cybercrime Unit 11, filed charges on the same day at the Davao City Prosecutor’s Office against a local male video blogger accused of spreading false information about a police raid at former President Rodrigo Duterte’s residence.
Rosete noted a possible “pattern” of misinformation being spread by a group of video bloggers but said investigations are ongoing.
When asked whether the two new suspects were connected to the blogger involved in the raid-related misinformation case, Dela Rey said they were not connected but emphasized that all suspects are video bloggers.
She warned the public to exercise caution, noting that misinformation can spread rapidly within the city and globally due to the internet’s reach.
“Please be responsible social media users. We will file charges against violators,” she added.
Gay Enumerables, Assistant Regional Director and Legal Officer of the 10th District Election Commission, said misinformation remains a significant issue among voters, putting them at a disadvantage. She explained that the challenge lies in the free flow of information on social media, where fake news can be easily created and quickly believed, especially as negative content tends to be more memorable.
However, Enumerables expressed confidence that awareness campaigns conducted over recent months in various villages and on social media have helped inform many citizens about the election process.
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