Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to enhance cyber patrol operations targeting online content creators who might exploit the upcoming three-day assemblies in Metro Manila.
Enhanced Monitoring Against False Claims
The intensified monitoring specifically aims at online content creators who post and disseminate fabricated claims designed to agitate the public and encourage violations of the law. In an official statement, Nartatez clarified that while the PNP fully respects freedom of speech, this right has limitations.
"Freedom does not include posting fake news and fabricated claims to mislead and misinform the public," Nartatez emphasized. He stated this directive aligns with the PNP's mission to maintain peace and order, uphold constitutional rights, and ensure that both online and physical activities do not threaten public safety or disrupt lawful gatherings.
Proactive Measures Against Online Manipulation
The police force has already identified several social media posts falsely reporting crowd build-ups or imminent disorder in areas like Mendiola. Nartatez revealed that some accounts are intentionally exaggerating situations to create unnecessary fear.
"We are not underestimating this kind of online manipulation because it can translate to real-world panic or mobilization," he warned in a mix of English and Filipino. The PNP has observed initial indicators of coordinated activity, including possible bot-generated posts, which are currently being validated by the ACG.
Nartatez assured the public that proactive steps are being taken to disrupt these attempts to spread misinformation. He maintained that the actual situation on the ground remains calm and peaceful despite the alarming online content.
Major Assemblies and Security Preparations
The religious group Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) is scheduled to hold its "Rally for Transparency and a Better Democracy" at Rizal Park in Manila, while the United People's Initiative (UPI) group will gather at the Edsa People Power Monument in Quezon City. Both events will run from November 16 to 18, 2025.
The INC rally is open to both members and non-members advocating for government accountability. While authorities anticipate approximately 100,000 attendees for the INC protest, the church itself has declared that around 300,000 members will participate in the three-day event. To manage security for these large gatherings, the PNP will deploy more than 16,000 police personnel.
Public Call for Responsible Sharing
To prevent misinformation from escalating tensions, Nartatez made a direct appeal to the public to practice responsible information sharing. "My only request to the public is to be careful when sharing. Do not forward anything that isn't verified," he urged.
He noted that people sometimes unintentionally add to confusion by sharing unverified content and emphasized that information discipline is everyone's responsibility. The public is encouraged to check official PNP channels for accurate updates regarding the assemblies and related security matters.
