In an era defined by rapid information exchange and digital connectivity, staying silent is no longer an option – truth must be defended, both online and offline.
As protectors of public safety and truth, the significance of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in countering disinformation cannot be overstated. Their role extends beyond law enforcement. By embracing transparency, leveraging technology, and engaging with the public, PNP can proactively mitigate the potential spread of fake news and effectively combat the damaging effects of misinformation.
In response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to refute disinformation under his governance agenda, PNP has established two new specialized committees against kidnapping and fake news on April 19, 2025. The two committees, the Joint Anti-Kidnapping Action Committee (JAKAC) and the Joint Anti-Fake News Action Committee (JAFNAC), are led by PLtGen Edgar Alan Okubo, Deputy Chief PNP for Investigation (TDCI), and PLtGen Robert Rodriguez, Deputy Chief PNP for Operations, respectively.
“Hindi lamang ito mga bagong komite. Ito ay mga konkretong hakbang upang tugunan ang mga modernong banta. Mula sa mga kidnap-for-hire syndicates hanggang sa mga fake news campaigns—kumikilos ang PNP para protektahan ang mamamayan. Ito ang aming ambag sa Bagong Pilipinas—siguruhing mananaig ang batas at katotohanan,” PNP Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil said.
The circulation of the conspired narrative on social media about the abduction and murder of prominent businessman Anson Que and his driver Armanie Pabillo, allegedly masterminded by Chinese national David Tan Liao, had prompted PNP to take proactive measures against to modern threats.
Although the case was successfully resolved, authorities continue to monitor and investigate the source of the fake reports. PGen Marbil commended PLtGen Okubo and the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) for their swift coordination and effective response. Three suspects are currently in PNP custody while two others remain at large as of this writing.
With the recent successful resolution of this kidnapping threat, JAKAC was formed to identify, suppress, and neutralize organized kidnap-for-hire operations in the country.
Alongside kidnapping cases, the spread of fake news also poses significant challenges. Disinformation isn’t just a nuisance; it is a threat to public safety, trust, and effective policing.
“Hindi biro ang fake news—ito ay maaaring magdulot ng takot, kaguluhan, at maling paniniwala. Sa ilalim ng Bagong Pilipinas, hindi natin papayagan ang kasinungalingan. Lalabanan natin ito,” PGen Marbil emphasized.
To debunk these baseless claims regarding the alleged kidnapping of several high-profile Chinese business personalities, PNP is actively pursuing those responsible for these malicious posts. The establishment of JAFNAC is a direct response aimed at institutionalizing coordination, monitoring, and strategic response mechanisms to combat disinformation across all platforms.
JAFNAC is currently conducting a focused and thorough probe to identify and hold accountable those behind this false and malicious information. Such fake news has sparked fear and confusion among the public, and PNP is determined to put an end to such irresponsible acts.
The Nation’s Peacekeeper also reminds the public—including vloggers, content creators, and social media influencers—to be responsible and careful when posting content online. It is important to verify information before sharing it, especially when it involves sensitive matters such as national security or public safety. While freedom of expression is a right, it comes with the responsibility to avoid spreading false or misleading information that may cause harm or confusion.
PNP assures the public that appropriate operational and legal actions are being implemented. Those behind the spread of fake news will face the full force of the law.
Whether it is a viral post falsely claiming a crime spree in a neighborhood or a fabricated video portraying police misconduct, PNP remains committed to transparency, accountability, and an informed citizenry. The public is urged to stay vigilant, verify information before sharing, and support the government’s ongoing campaign against digital disinformation – because in Bagong Pilipinas, truth and justice prevail in both the streets and the digital space.
