Malacañang denied Sunday night reports circulating online that a nationwide lockdown will be declared next week due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The said message likewise claimed that food will be rationed every three days as wet markets will be closed to stop people from going around.
In a text message, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo advised the public to be more discerning when using social media as it denied the lockdown rumor.
“Absolutely not true. Stop believing false news and information,” he said Sunday evening. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles likewise said the report circulating was “fake news.”
Malacañang has denounced the sudden surge and proliferation of fake news online during the Luzon quarantine, saying these false narratives only create panic, confusion, and fear.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) likewise warned to hunt down and press charges against those spreading fake news amid the Luzon enhanced community quarantine.
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said Monday those creating and spreading fake news should watch their backs as the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may go after them since they are moving faster than the virus.
In a text message, Medialdea said the SARS-CoV2, the virus that causes the COVID-19, was probably threatened by the virus affecting more people than it does.
“Those who spread fake news should have themselves disinfected. They are now moving faster than the virus itself,” he said.
“The virus is worried and sees them as competitors and is now looking for them. Watch out!” he added. (Argyll B. Geducos)