NBI to go after fake news purveyors

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) announced on Thursday its plans to take action against online sources of fake news and disinformation, including those operating outside the Philippines.

Speaking at the “Meet the Manila Press” news forum, NBI Director Jaime Santiago said the bureau’s cybercrime and technical intelligence unit is set to hold a meeting to outline the government’s strategy for tracking down fake news bloggers and online trolls.

“Hindi na namin palalampasin yan (We will not let this pass). We will investigate this seriously,” Santiago said.

According to Santiago, authorities have already identified several trolls and their possible connections to prominent figures. One of them is the blogger known as “Maharlika,” who has been linked to spreading false and malicious information.

Recently, the blogger claimed that the First Lady was detained in the United States while attending a filmmakers’ event.

“Humanda sya (‘Maharlika’ better prepare), we will go after her. Hindi siya nakakasiguro dahil akala nya ligtas sya dahil andun sya sa America. Galit na ang taong bayan, di lang ang NBI kungdi pati ang taong bayan (She should not be self-assured because she might think she’s safe because she’s in America. The people are already furious, not just the NBI),” Santiago said.

He also warned bloggers against using online commentaries as a form of entertainment or misinformation.

“Hindi tama (It’s not right). We have freedom of speech and expression but that is not absolute,” he said.