THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday cautioned the public against spreading misinformation and engaging in online incitement that could trigger violence or undermine public order as the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte began.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), intelligence units and all police regional offices to be on the lookout for online activities that may incite violence, target government institutions, or threaten public officials in connection with the impeachment proceedings.
Nartatez said the PNP will initiate round-the-clock cyber patrolling to identify and neutralize malicious narratives.
The PNP has also deployed around 6,000 police personnel around the Senate complex and other key areas in anticipation of demonstrations.
Local police commanders were directed to validate and address viral false information that could create panic or provoke disorder.
“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 said.
On Monday, the Federation of Free Workers (FFW) said the impeachment court must let the constitutional process run its course, stressing that accountability is not an “all-or-nothing” exercise.
FFW President Sonny Matula said the Constitution requires every public official to answer for his or her actions through established legal and constitutional processes, regardless of position or political affiliation.
“The issue before the Senate today is the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The Senate should allow the constitutional process to proceed,” Matula said in a Viber message to The Manila Times.
He said the dismissal of an impeachment complaint against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., unresolved cases involving other personalities, or pending investigations against public officials should not be used to suspend or derail the trial of Duterte.
“The law does not demand that every alleged wrongdoer be prosecuted at the same time before one who is properly charged may be called to account,” Matula said.
He warned that treating accountability as an “all-or-nothing” proposition could only reward impunity.
“The failure to enforce accountability against some individuals does not invalidate or suspend proceedings against another. Otherwise, impunity would become the strongest defense against impeachment,” he said.
Matula also called on the Office of the Ombudsman and other investigative agencies to apply the law impartially, stressing that public accountability must extend to all officials, whether they belong to the administration or the opposition.
“Every credible allegation of corruption, bribery, plunder, or any other serious offense deserves the same impartial investigation and, where warranted, prosecution,” he said. “Selective enforcement erodes public confidence just as much as impunity does. The Constitution demands equal justice — not equal neglect.” IZEL ABANILLA AND WILLIAM DEPASUPIL
