Manila: Several senators on Monday expressed their support for the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) plan to identify those allegedly bankrolling fake news campaigns on social media and called for a fair and balanced investigation.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing, Senate President Francis Escudero called for the separation of fact from opinion, stating that grievances from allies of former president Rodrigo Duterte should not justify the spread of disinformation. Escudero emphasized that while the NBI may act motu proprio, it typically initiates investigations based on formal complaints. He also noted a disparity in how such complaints arise.
‘Often, the ones who complain are the ones who slander the government, while those who are retaliated against remain silent. If there is a complaint on the other side, it should also be investigated,’ Escudero said.
Senator Joel Villanueva expressed strong support for the initiative, citing his personal experience as a target of online disinformation. Villanueva called for amendments to the Cybercrime Prevention Act to include harsher penalties, arguing the current law is insufficient to curb the spread of harmful content.
Senator Grace Poe also underscored the urgent need for full enforcement of the Anti-Cybercrime Law and supported a fair and intensified probe by the NBI. Citing recent Supreme Court rulings, Poe warned against the real-world consequences of disinformation, which can damage livelihoods, reputations, and even national unity.
According to a March 2025 Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, 65 percent of Filipinos find it difficult to distinguish between legitimate news and fake content online. Poe emphasized the importance of identifying those bankrolling these activities, stating it is essential to protect the public from calculated deception, while ensuring the approach is balanced and grounded in law.
The NBI is expecting to file cases against identified individuals soon, including a US-based vlogger who goes by the name Maharlika, who could face charges for violating the anti-cybercrime law and inciting to sedition.
