By Benjamin Pulta
MANILA – Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Monday warned purveyors of fake news operating from outside the country to change their ways or face the full force of the law.
In an interview with reporters, Remulla explained that when fake news enters the realm of being a cybercrime, it may become actionable.
“Cybercrime. We can get a form of cybercrime against them in the process and that is very, very different kind of law,” he said. “(A)ctually the borders are now getting less and less. There will come a time that even running after those who spread it from distant shores will be very possible.”
Remulla reiterated the pernicious effects of disinformation and fake news on the population.
“Fake news is fake news. You all know it’s bad to peddle fake news or lies. Hindi maganda ‘yun (That’s not good), especially digital media has become a very powerful tool. It can actually unsettle society, we are looking after the life of the majority and not the minority who wish to create chaos in the country,” he said. “I think that everybody’s responsibility as a citizen is to speak the truth all the time.“
Congress is conducting legislative inquiries in aid of legislation on the spread of fake news.
The National Bureau of Investigation also said it will identify those allegedly bankrolling fake news campaigns on social media. (PNA)
