ILOILO CITY (PIA) – The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has urged the public to verify information and refrain from spreading unconfirmed data following the recent reports of false kidnapping incidents in the province.
IPPO director Colonel Bayani Razalan, in a statement, cautioned the public about the dangers of misinformation, citing that unverified claims can create unwarranted panic.
“We urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information, as it can lead to unnecessary panic and reactions. Parents are encouraged to teach their children to be cautious about information from unreliable sources, particularly on social media,” Razalan said, noting that everyone should take responsibility for their actions.
The IPPO chief also instructed all unit commanders to engage with school authorities to educate students on the importance of verifying information, especially from social media.
“We are committed to raising public awareness about the dangers of believing and spreading fake news,” he stressed.
The call stemmed from the previous kidnapping reports in the towns of Pavia, Dumangas, and Santa Barbara that the IPPO already debunked following its thorough investigation
The IPPO found no evidence of kidnapping in the Dumangas and Pavia incidents as security camera footage and the statements of the witnesses contradicted the claims of abduction.
The investigation in the Santa Barbara incident revealed that the minor involved in the case was a child in conflict with the law (CICL) who had escaped while being transferred by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Pavia to its counterpart in Santa Barbara.
Despite the false kidnapping incidents, the IPPO still increased visibility in schools and already coordinated with the Liga ng mga Barangay to mobilize Barangay Tanods for enhanced community safety.
“Your Ilonggo police are here, ready to provide our services to ensure the safety and security of our community,” Razalan assured the public. (AAL/JNH/PIA Iloilo)
