Palace to voters: Reject fake news

PNP stepping up drive against vote-buying

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

Malacañang has warned voters against falling for disinformation as the May 12 midterm elections approach, urging the public to be vigilant, responsible, and to avoid aiding those who spread falsehoods online.

In a press briefing on Wednesday, May 7, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the administration has long been the subject of fake news and appealed to voters not to let such tactics influence their decisions at the polls.

"First of all, be vigilant and do not sell your dignity," she said. "Do not sell the country by becoming a keyboard warrior whose only goal is to spread fake news."

The Palace Press Officer said voters should learn to distinguish between legitimate criticism against the government and deliberate disinformation.

She likewise asked the public to avoid consuming or spreading content aimed purely at attacking the administration without factual basis.

"People are allowed to criticize and question the government as long as there is evidence. The door is not closed on that," Castro said.

The Palace official reminded voters that making informed choices begins with verifying information.

"Let us fight fake news so you can make a good decision on May 12," she said.

Election security, protection in place

Castro said the government is fully prepared to ensure orderly and safe elections, with the Department of Education (DepEd) deploying its Election Task Force nationwide starting Sunday, May 11, for real-time monitoring and incident response.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara has confirmed that funding has been allocated for teacher honoraria, as well as the cleanup and preparation of polling precincts.