The PNP yesterday filed charges against a Davao City resident who recently spread fake news on social media about a supposed police raid at the residence of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
The male resident, whose name was withheld by the police, was accused of violating Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code (Unlawful Use of Means of Publication and Unlawful Utterances), in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
The complaint was filed yesterday afternoon by the Davao police regional office, with the technical assistance of the PNP Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit XI, before the Hall of Justice of Davao City.
The resident posted “fake news” on social media regarding a supposed raid conducted by the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and PNP Special Action Force at the residence of the former president last April 30.
The PNP earlier denied conducting such an operation.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil reiterated the PNP’s firm stance against fake news.
“The internet is not a safe haven for lawlessness. Those who use it to mislead, sow confusion, or incite unrest will be held accountable under the law,” said Marbil.
Marbil emphasized that “freedom of expression does not mean freedom from consequences.”
“The PNP will continue to take lawful and decisive action against those who weaponize fake news to disrupt public order,” Marbil said.
The PNP Public Information Office (PIO) said the police force is fully committed to ensuring the safety of the public in cyberspace.
“Let this serve as a reminder: disinformation is not only irresponsible—it is punishable by law,” the PIO said in a statement.
