DILG chief blames fake news for rumors of dela Rosa arrest

MANILA, Philippines — Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla pointed the blame to the spread of fake news for the rumor circulating online that Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa had been arrested. “Alam mo, ang fake news ngayon, iba klase, ‘di ba? Ang daming fake news,” Remulla told reporters in Quezon City on Wednesday. The statement comes amid baseless information spreading on social media about the senator's alleged arrest, causing some level of confusion. The Philippines has long grappled with the issue of misinformation and disinformation online, particularly concerning political discourse and social issues, contributing to a climate of distrust among the public. Senator dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief, plays a significant role in national security policy as a sitting legislator. Rumors of his arrest could potentially unsettle not only his supporters but also those closely following the country's political landscape. The DILG chief reiterated the importance of combating fake news and urged the public to exercise caution and critical thinking when consuming information online.