House leaders back CIDG chief’s move against fake news
Criminal Investigation and Detection Group chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III — File photo by Lyn Rillon | Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines — House leaders on Sunday expressed support for Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III’s move to file a complaint against a Cebu-based vlogger accused of spreading false information.
The complaint involves Ernesto “Jun” Abines, who reportedly spread false information about Torre’s hospitalization on Facebook.
READ: CIDG chief Torre to file cyber libel raps vs Jay Sonza, vlogger
According to House leaders, authorities are also investigating an alleged data breach and misinformation campaign involving individuals linked to protest actions in Cebu.
“In today’s digital age, truth matters more than ever. We commend the CIDG chief for his commitment to upholding facts and holding accountable those who deliberately mislead the public,” Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega, and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun said in a joint statement.
Article continues after this advertisementREAD: CIDG serves search warrant vs commentator on hospitalization claim
Article continues after this advertisementTorre, who became CIDG chief in September 2024, also previously filed complaints of inciting to sedition and unlawful utterances against former President Rodrigo Duterte over controversial remarks about killing 15 senators.
READ: PNP-CIDG chief files raps vs Rodrigo Duterte over ‘kill senators’ quip
The lawmakers warned about the dangers of misinformation, noting how it can mislead the public and undermine trust in democratic institutions.
“Fake news is a serious threat to our society. It misleads people, distorts public discourse, and even puts lives at risk,” they said.
“Those who spread false information should be held responsible for the damage they cause, whether to private individuals, public servants, or the Filipino people as a whole,” they added.
READ: CIDG chief on suing Rodrigo Duterte: ‘What goes around comes around’
The legislators also urged the public to be vigilant against misinformation and to verify facts before sharing information online.
“Let’s be critical of what we read and hear. Verify facts before spreading information – this is the best way to stop the spread of fake news,” they said.
The House Tri-committee is pushing for measures imposing penalties on those who spread false information.
