Palace to Fake News Peddlers: Huwag Gawing Gulo ang Energy Crisis
Malacañang — The Manila Times
Malacañang is warning social media users not to spread made-up stories about the country’s energy situation, saying false posts can trigger panic and create even more pressure during a sensitive period.
The Palace statement, quoted by The Manila Times, responded to viral posts claiming there would be an ‘energy lockdown’ starting April 20, 2026. Those posts also urged the public to stock up on power banks, solar gear, food, medicine, and water.
Presidential Communications Office acting Secretary Dave Gomez said people who deliberately fabricate and circulate false information will be held accountable under the law. He specifically pointed to Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code and said penalties can be harsher when the act is done online under the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
Gomez added that fake news weakens public trust, can destabilize the economy, and may harm ordinary Filipinos already dealing with uncertainty around the energy emergency. In short, hindi raw biro ang pagpapakalat ng maling impormasyon.
The Palace also stressed there will be zero tolerance for those who intentionally use disinformation for personal or political gain, making it clear that authorities are treating these misleading posts as more than just online noise.
Source: The Manila Times
