Quezon City: The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced plans to create an interagency task force aimed at combating online misinformation and disinformation, particularly on social media platforms. PCO Secretary Jay Ruiz stated during "The War on Truth: A Consultative Forum" that the initiative seeks to establish a framework compelling social media platforms to address disinformation.
According to Philippines News Agency, the PCO is collaborating with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), and the Department of Justice to combat the spread of fake news. Ruiz emphasized the need for regular forums to ensure cohesive efforts among different government agencies.
Ruiz expressed concerns over fake news as a national security issue and highlighted the importance of unified action across government bodies to address the threat. He suggested a regulatory body for social media, akin to the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, to oversee and manage content dissemination.
PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, leading the charge against fake news, launched the Joint Anti-Fake News Action Committee (JAFNAC) at the forum. Marbil stressed the importance of a coordinated approach involving multiple agencies to identify and hold accountable those spreading false information.
The task force will include the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation, PCO, Philippine Information Agency, DICT, National Youth Commission, Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, and the PNP Press Corps. Marbil underscored the collective responsibility to combat disinformation and protect the truth.
Concluding the forum, representatives from various government agencies signed a pledge of commitment to a comprehensive government strategy focused on legal actions, technological advancements, and public education to fight fake news. Marbil reiterated the PNP's dedication to defending truth and freedom of expression from misuse.
