Manila: It is time to go after the individuals who are sources of disinformation and misinformation, Malaca±ang said on Thursday. In a chance interview with Palace reporters, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin lamented that the impact of fake news is becoming ‘very devastating,’ given its alarming surge on the internet.

According to Philippines News Agency, Bersamin expressed concern over the global issue of fake news, emphasizing that it is not only the Philippines but the entire world suffering the consequences of deceitful information. He stressed the importance of prosecuting those responsible for spreading false information during an event at Malaca±an Palace in Manila.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has enlisted the help of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to track down overseas Filipinos involved in disseminating false information. This step acknowledges the legal challenges involved, particularly in countries like the United States, where libel is treated as a civil rather than a criminal offense.

Currently, the NBI is investigating a network of at least 20 individuals suspected of spreading misinformation and disinformation, especially targeting government officials and political figures. Bersamin stated that the Palace would allow the NBI to take appropriate actions against fake news peddlers, avoiding any public announcements that could lead to conflicting information.

The Presidential Communications Office is intensifying its campaign against fake news, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive, to combat the growing threat of misinformation effectively.