The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its monitoring of online threats and disinformation as the Senate begins the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), intelligence units, and all police regional offices to closely track online activities related to the proceedings, particularly posts that may encourage violence, spread false information, attack government institutions, or threaten public officials.
The move follows instructions from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to maintain public safety and ensure peace and order during the politically sensitive trial.
“Disinformation that seeks to incite violence or undermine our democratic institutions is a direct threat to public safety. The PNP is utilizing 24/7 cyber patrolling to identify and neutralize malicious narratives intended to deceive the public,” Nartatez said.
The Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, is set to open Duterte’s trial on Monday, July 6. Around 6,000 police personnel have been deployed around the Senate complex and other key areas to secure the proceedings and manage expected public demonstrations.
Nartatez said police intelligence units have also been placed on heightened alert to detect possible online calls for violence, coordinated attacks against public institutions, and threats against officials involved in the impeachment process.
Local police commanders were also told to quickly verify and respond to viral false information that could trigger panic, public confusion, or disorder in their areas.
“We urge the public to be discerning. Before sharing any information regarding these proceedings, verify it through official channels to avoid becoming a tool for those who wish to disrupt the rule of law,” Nartatez said.
The PNP chief stressed that the police organization will remain politically neutral throughout the impeachment proceedings, saying its role is limited to preserving peace, protecting democratic institutions, and ensuring public safety.