Manila: The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Friday hailed the arrest of former broadcaster Jay Sonza, saying this reflects the government's strong drive in combatting alleged online abuse and misinformation.

According to Philippines News Agency, PCO Acting Secretary Dave Gomez stated that the actions taken by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) exemplify the Marcos administration's 'firm and lawful response' against the spread of false information. "It shows the government's continuing effort to guard the truth, protect the public from deception, and preserve a free but responsible democratic space," he noted.

Gomez emphasized the importance of maintaining a public discourse that remains free, truthful, fair, and orderly. The NBI had filed cyberlibel complaints against Sonza for allegedly spreading fake medical documents of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., leading to his arrest on Thursday following an arrest warrant issued by the Pasay City Regional Trial Court.

The PCO, through its Oplan Kontra Fake News, will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies, the media, and responsible online platforms to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who disseminate falsehoods. This initiative aims to send a strong warning against the spread of misinformation.

"Misinformation undermines public trust, endangers lives and will be met with swift, lawful consequences," Gomez asserted. He also mentioned the PCO's earlier agreement with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Information and Communication Technology to curb the spread of fake news and hold its purveyors accountable.

The PCO has already submitted several cases of fake news to the DOJ for investigation and prosecution in court.