PCO Seeks DOJ Probe into Facebook Page for Spreading False Energy Information
Acting Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez arrived at the Department of Justice on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, to file a formal complaint. The complaint requests an investigation into the Facebook page "Malasakit News Pilipinas" for its role in disseminating false information regarding the nation's energy situation.
Targeting Fabricated Posts on Social Media
The PCO, under Gomez's leadership, has asked the DOJ to examine the individuals behind the Facebook page. This page has been posting "fabricated" energy-related content that misleads the public about the status of the Middle East conflict and its impact on oil supply and the economy.
"We are asking the Department of Justice to investigate at least three 'fake news' posts, determine the persons who fabricated them, and bring them to court on behalf of the Filipino people to answer for the harm they have caused the public," Gomez stated.
Specific Examples of Misleading Content
Gomez highlighted three particular posts from the page. One urged the public to invest in solar panels, citing a future "energy lockdown" due to a looming global oil crisis. Another post encouraged stocking up on gasoline, diesel, and LPG because of an alleged fuel shortage. A third post claimed an emergency lockdown was imminent due to an "imagined" Covid-19 Cicada variant.
Legal Implications and Government Response
Gomez emphasized that spreading fake news violates the Cybercrime Prevention Act. "Any attempt to mislead the public about energy security, supply, or pricing to sow confusion will be treated as a serious offense. We will not let you get away with a crime. We will go after you and hold you to account," he warned.
He added, "Our ultimate obligation is to safeguard the stability of energy supply, protect consumers, and uphold the public's right to true and accurate information." The PCO's action underscores the government's commitment to combating misinformation that could destabilize public trust and economic security.
