The Philippine National Police (PNP) stepped up online surveillance and enforcement efforts against individuals and groups that may exploit drought-related concerns by spreading deceptive claims and fraudulent marketing schemes involving water treatment products.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to intensify monitoring of online scams involving water purification products and other fraudulent offers targeting vulnerable consumers.
The operational push aligns with instructions from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., delivered through the guidance of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen consumer protection, intensify action against cybercrime, and safeguard communities from exploitation during emergencies.
“Access to safe drinking water is a public concern, and misinformation can put lives and livelihoods at risk. The PNP will investigate individuals or groups that spread misleading claims about water purification products if these are used to defraud the public,” PGEN Nartatez said.
The order follows reports from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) stating that it has been working with government agencies to address the spread of inaccurate information and online speculation regarding water shortages and filtration products.
Official figures show El Niño affected 451,889 individuals or 121,185 families across 1,019 barangays in six regions as of Oct. 11, with government preparations including the prepositioning of water lorries and identification of alternative potable water and irrigation sources.
In response to the drought impact, PGEN Nartatez also instructed police regional offices and local police units to coordinate with the Department of Trade and Industry, local government units, and other concerned agencies to verify and act on complaints involving water hoarding, profiteering, and consumer fraud.
“The PNP’s cybercrime and investigation units are monitoring online activities related to possible scams and deceptive schemes arising from the water situation. We encourage the public to report suspicious sellers and misleading advertisements to authorities immediately,” PGEN Nartatez also said.