2 social media users charged for spreading fake news

Local

TWO individuals have been charged with cybercrime for spreading fake news on social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, during the recent grand procession of the Sinulog Festival and a prayer protest rally.

The Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO-7), under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, filed the charges following the discovery of edited and altered content circulating online.

Maranan explained that their cyber investigators faced a challenging and intricate investigation, as the false information was being disseminated through digital platforms.

They worked closely with telecommunication companies and internet providers to trace the digital footprints of those responsible for the spread of misleading content.

In an interview, PRO-7 spokesperson, Col. Arvie Aserre Paraon-Bueno, revealed that the vloggers, aged between 20 and 45 and from Cebu City and Imus, Cavite, had posted false reports about the rally.

One of the viral posts incorrectly claimed that a protest rally was taking place in Mandaue City, when in fact, the event was a religious gathering or entertainment activity held outside the jurisdiction of PRO-7.

The misleading posts caused confusion and unnecessary panic in the region, particularly in Mandaue and Cebu City.

Some people canceled appointments, while others took detours to avoid perceived road blockages, believing a protest was occurring. Local businesses also reported financial losses as a result of the misinformation.

Moreover, the inaccurate crowd estimates posted by the vloggers contradicted official figures released by the Mandaue City government, further discrediting the integrity of local authorities and law enforcement.

Although the vloggers have not been arrested, the cases have been filed with the Cebu Prosecutor’s Office and Mandaue City Prosecutor’s Office.

The charges fall under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code and Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, which pertains to the unlawful use of media and publication to spread false information.

Maranan stressed the serious consequences of spreading fake news, which can undermine public trust and safety. Individuals convicted of such offenses may face imprisonment of up to 12 years.

The PRO-7 has urged the public to be more vigilant in their online activities and to refrain from sharing unverified information. Authorities also reminded netizens to rely on credible sources for accurate news.(MyTVCebu)