charges filed in Philippines over manipulated Duterte rally video

PRO 7 Director Brigadier General Redrico Maranan. ARCHIVE

Philippine authorities have filed cybercrime charges against two individuals accused of spreading fake news on social media that falsely linked a religious event to a purported rally for former president Rodrigo Duterte. Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 Director Brigadier General Redrico Maranan confirmed the charges against Leocimar Magallanes and Salic Daurong under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The duo allegedly shared a manipulated video of the 460th Fiesta Señor Penitential Walk with Mary on March 13 as part of the Sinulog festival, misrepresenting it as a prayer rally for Duterte following his arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on March 11. Authorities traced their digital footprint with the help of telecom and internet service providers. “Spreading false information on social media is a serious offense that undermines public trust and safety,” Maranan warned. He urged the public to verify sources before sharing content. Rennan Augustus Oliva, Director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) 7, confirmed their cyber patrolling efforts are ongoing. “We’re actively monitoring misinformation on social media, as per directives from NBI Director Jaime Santiago,” Oliva said. In a related case, a Cebu-based vlogger previously arrested for spreading fake content against Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also faces criminal charges. CAM/Expat Media