MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday cautioned the public against spreading misinformation and inciting violence as the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte opens later in the day
PNP chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. directed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), intelligence units, and all Police Regional Offices to strengthen monitoring of online activities that may 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 PNP has deployed around 6,000 police personnel around the Senate complex and other key areas to secure the proceedings and manage anticipated public demonstrations.
Nartatez also said intelligence monitoring has likewise been intensified to detect online calls for violence, attacks against government institutions, and threats directed at public officials involved in the impeachment process.
The PNP instructed local police commanders 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 would remain politically neutral throughout the impeachment proceedings and would focus solely on maintaining peace, protecting democratic institutions, and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
