NBI to run after vloggers, online trolls spreading fake news

National

THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will launch a major crackdown on vloggers and trolls spreading fake news online.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago said the agency’s cybercrime unit has taken action due to the increasing number of online attacks and disinformation campaigns.

While he acknowledged the existence of freedom of speech and expression, Santiago emphasized that these rights do not grant individuals the license to spread false narratives.

The NBI is set to file charges against individuals identified as violators of the anti-cybercrime law, among those facing possible legal action is US-based vlogger Maharlika.

The charges will be filed with the Department of Justice (DOJ) in the coming days, Santiago confirmed in a Philippine Star report.

In addition, the NBI is conducting an inquiry into social media posts linked to former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, which allegedly promote a "people power movement."

"They should stop now before they get arrested and start crying about freedom of expression or freedom of the press," Santiago stated.

He reiterated that while these rights are protected, they are not absolute and are subject to legal limitations.

To combat the spread of disinformation, the NBI will collaborate with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).

Santiago further warned that the dissemination of false information leading to public unrest could be considered an act inciting to sedition.(Nikelyn Pahayahay, BiPSU Comm Intern)