Government authorities have cautioned the public against the spread of misleading information online following recent changes in the Senate leadership, warning that disinformation could worsen political confusion and unrest.
Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) Undersecretary Aboy Paraiso disclosed that the agency is closely monitoring digital activities and online conversations.
The monitoring suggests that certain groups may be organizing rallies and mass actions tied to the Senate transition and related political developments.
Paraiso urged citizens to remain cautious when interacting with content on social media and messaging applications.
“We encourage Filipinos to be vigilant when consuming and sharing information related to political and religious activities, particularly on social media and messaging platforms,” said Paraiso.
The CICC official stressed the necessity of verifying facts before participating in public gatherings or forwarding digital posts.
“The CICC also reminds the public to verify information that they see on social media platforms through credible and official sources before participating in any event,” he added.
According to Paraiso, the proliferation of misinformation, disinformation, and unverified claims risks inflaming public sentiments and further complicating an already sensitive political landscape.
Public attention has recently focused on intense Senate hearings regarding flood control issues, which drew sharp criticism from the newly formed majority bloc led by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian.
In response to potential protests, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has heightened its security presence around the Senate complex.
Meanwhile, authorities dismissed viral online rumors regarding a supposed plot to storm Malacañang on June 12, declaring the reports entirely baseless.
Paraiso concluded by calling for responsible online behavior, emphasizing that digital spaces should foster national stability rather than division during politically charged times.
“Cyberspace is not only a platform for expressing opinions but also a shared space where every Filipino has a responsibility to ensure that the information you consume and share is accurate and constructive,” said Paraiso.
“We appeal to Filipino netizens to be discerning and responsible online. Let us not add fuel to confusion, division, or conflict by spreading unverified information or inflammatory content. Instead, let us promote respectful dialogue based on facts and digital responsibility,” he added.