By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Northern Police District (NPD) has intensified its monitoring of social media platforms and online news sources to assist in combating fake news ahead of the May 12 elections.
Enhanced monitoring and fact-checking are part of the multi-pronged strategy to prevent disinformation and misinformation, according to the NPD news release Sunday.
“The spread of fake news is a serious offense that can have dire consequences, especially during elections,” NPD chief Col. Josefino Ligan said. “We are committed to ensuring that the public has access to accurate and reliable information so they can make informed choices.”
According to Ligan, a dedicated NPD team will be responsible for verifying information and debunking false claims.
Rapid response teams will also be established “to quickly address and debunk fake news incidents as they arise, preventing the spread of misinformation and mitigating its potential impact,” Ligan said.
Ligan vowed to pursue legal action against individuals or groups found to be deliberately creating and disseminating fake news intended to disrupt the electoral process.
The NPD will also conduct public awareness campaigns that will emphasize critical thinking skills and responsible information sharing.
The campaigns will be conducted through various channels, including social media, community forums and partnerships with local media outlets, Ligan said.
He said the NPD will pursue these initiatives in coordination with the Commission on Elections, Department of Information and Communications Technology, media organizations, and civil society groups.
“We encourage everyone to verify information from multiple credible sources before sharing it, and to report any suspected cases of fake news to the authorities,” Ligan said.
The NPD covers the cities of Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela (Camanava). (PNA)
