SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA)— The Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) has stepped up its efforts in combating the spread of fake news, reinforcing the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Joint Anti-Fake News Action Committee (JAFNAC) as part of a national initiative to safeguard public order and safety.
JAFNAC was formed to combat the harmful spread of misinformation, especially ahead of the upcoming national and local elections, which are often a target for fake news.
This initiative aims to protect citizens from false information that can disrupt peace and order.
Police Brigadier General Lou Evangelista, PRO1 regional director, emphasized the significant threat that online misinformation poses to local peace and safety.
“As we approach the elections, the spread of fake news poses an increasing threat to peace, order, and public safety. We are committed to intensifying our efforts to fight misinformation and protect our communities from its disruptive effects,” Evangelista said.
Following the directive of PNP Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil, Evangelista has directed the implementation of various initiatives to prevent, monitor, and address fake news issues within the region.
Community engagement and awareness
PRO1 has launched a series of community-based information drives, targeting barangays, schools, and local communities to educate residents on how to identify and avoid fake news.
These workshops feature expert talks on the dangers of misinformation and strategies for verifying online sources.
In addition to awareness campaigns, social media teams have been mobilized to monitor local social media platforms and news sources for the spread of false information.
These efforts are being coordinated with the Regional Anti-Cyber Crime Unit to ensure timely detection and response.
PRO1 is also working closely with local radio stations, newspapers, and online platforms to promote responsible reporting and fact-checking practices.
By fostering collaboration with media outlets, the campaign encourages fact-based journalism as a defense against fake news.
“The fight against fake news is a shared responsibility, and we in Police Regional Office 1 fully commit our maximum efforts to doing our part. We stand firmly behind the efforts of the PNP leadership and will implement proactive measures to protect our communities from the harmful effects of misinformation,” Evangelista said.
Call for public participation
Evangelista urged the public to be discerning consumers of information.
“We encourage our fellow citizens to verify the source of news before sharing it. If you encounter any false information on social media, please report it. By working together, we can protect our region from the negative consequences of fake news,” he said.
PRO1 continues to coordinate with other agencies and organizations to maximize the effectiveness of their campaign against fake news.
Through education, vigilance, and collaboration, the region aims to strengthen its defense against the spread of misinformation. (AMB/REB, PIA Region 1)
