DICT-CICC warns against online content that may fuel unrest after Senate commotion

• IN PHOTO (from left): CICC Executive Director Undersecretary Aboy Paraiso; DICT Secretary Henry Aguda; CICC Director Rojun Hosillos. (Photo courtesy of Paraiso)

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), together with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), said it has begun closely monitoring online content and social media posts following the commotion that recently erupted inside the Senate.

In a statement released Wednesday, May 14, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said authorities are now conducting “close monitoring” of posts and digital content that may allegedly encourage further violence, panic, or disorder connected to the incident.

“Sa gitna ng kaguluhang kasalukuyang nangyayari, kasunod ng gulo na naganap sa Senado, aktibo at mahigpit na nagbabantay ngayon ang Department of Information and Communications Technology kasama natin ang Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center sa mga magiging kaganapan sa social media at digital platforms hinggil sa isyu,” Aguda said.

According to the statement, the monitoring effort forms part of its mandate to help maintain safety and order in the country’s digital space, especially during periods of heightened public tension.

Aguda also warned against the spread of fake news, manipulated videos, and unverified information online, saying such content could further intensify fear, confusion, and public unrest.

“Sa panahon ng tensyon at pangamba, walang puwang ang pagpapakalat ng mga fake news at mga hindi beripikadong impormasyon, mga edited videos at mga mapanlinlang na mga posts na magdadagdag ng kalituhan at takot sa publiko,” he said.

The DICT chief urged the public to remain responsible in sharing information online and to verify information first before posting, commenting, or resharing content.

The statement also carried a warning that individuals proven to have contributed to or encouraged the spread of false information or violence online may face corresponding penalties under existing laws.

“Sinumang mapa-tutunayang nag-ambag o nag-udyok sa pagpapakalat ng maling impormasyon online at karahasan ay hindi palalampasin ng CICC at sisiguraduhin na mapapatawan ng karampatang parusa,” Aguda added.

The DICT-CICC emphasized that protecting public safety, particularly government officials and employees inside the Senate building, remains a priority amid the ongoing tensions.

“Ang ganitong uri ng aktibidad sa ating cyberspace ay hindi kailanman kukunsintihin ng DICT at CICC. Dahil prayoridad natin ang kaligtasan at kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan, lalong-lalo na ang ating mga senador at mga empleyadong nasa loob ng senate building,” Aguda said.