Malacañang on Tuesday issued a stern reminder that the country’s emergency cell broadcast system must not be used for political purposes, following reports that some candidates have allegedly used the alert platform to promote their campaigns.
“This system was created solely for emergency use. When we say ‘emergency,’ it must be used only for that purpose,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said in a media briefing.
“It should never be exploited by anyone for personal or political gain,” she added.
The warning comes after concerns were raised about the unauthorized use of the alert system—typically used to disseminate real-time warnings during disasters such as typhoons, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes.
Castro confirmed that an investigation is already underway, led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in coordination with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
“The DICT and NTC are already looking into this, and anyone found to have violated the law will be held accountable and face legal action,” she said.
The emergency cell broadcast system, which sends alerts directly to mobile phones in specific geographic areas, is considered a critical tool in ensuring public safety.
The Palace reiterated that any misuse undermines its credibility and risks delaying vital information during actual emergencies.
Earlier, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) also condemned the inappropriate use of the ECBS, which is designed to issue life-saving alerts during disasters.
The OCD warned that political messages disguised as alerts could desensitize the public, creating confusion and potentially endangering lives.
Several residents in some provinces recently reported receiving alerts urging them to vote for specific candidates.