The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is investigating at least 20 individuals for spreading “fake news” on various issues, including the recent alleged arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte concerning crimes against humanity cases before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
NBI Director Jaime Santiago stated that his agency has held meetings with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
“We have discussed how we can, once and for all, stop these fake news spreaders, vloggers who provide fake news, and creators who create content without regard for its accuracy,” Santiago said.
Santiago also indicated that they are exploring the possibility that the dissemination of false information online is a coordinated effort led by a specific individual. “We are looking into whether they have a leader. We are investigating all of that,” Santiago explained.
The NBI’s investigation will extend across international borders. While limitations exist, such as libel not being considered a criminal offense in countries like the US, Santiago mentioned that inciting sedition could be pursued instead.
When asked if Filipinos residing abroad could be held criminally liable for actions committed outside the Philippines, Santiago confirmed they could. “It’s easier. We just write to Interpol to ask for their assistance in bringing them back here, through extradition,” Santiago said.
Meanwhile, at the House of Representatives, House Committee on Public Accounts chairman Joseph Stephen Paduano of Abang Lingkod Party-list warned resource persons in the House Tri-Comm probe on fake news and online disinformation that they risk being cited for contempt if they attack or insult the proceedings or lawmakers after the hearing.
Paduano added that the House had previously enforced this rule. “We have already done that in my committee when a block timer from Cagayan, Bombo Radyo Cagayan, was cited in contempt.
The House joint committee, comprising the Committees on Public Information, Public Order and Safety, and Information and Communications Technology, has scheduled its next hearing for April 8.
Paduano moved to issue subpoenas to 24 pro-Duterte vloggers and influencers who failed to attend the hearing despite receiving show-cause orders.
Those subpoenaed include former NTF-ELCAC spokesperson Lorraine Badoy, vloggers Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz and Allan Troy “Sass” Rogando Sasot, Alex Distor, Alven Mortero, Claire Eden Contreras, Claro Ganac, Cyrus Priglo, Darwin Salceda, Edwin Jamora, Elmer Jugalbot, Ernesto Abines Jr., Atty. Glen Chong, Jeffrey Cruz, Josmith Medina, Jonathan Morales, Julius Milan Maui, Kester Tan, Lord Byron Cristobal, Maria Florenda Espenilla, Maricar Serrano, Susan Batalla, Mary Catherine Binag and Vivian Zapata Rodriguez.
Pimentel said. He also reminded that subpoenas previously issued to 11 individuals, including Badoy, Celiz, and Sasot, remain in effect.