Ex-AFP member faces raps for socmed report

MANILA, Philippines — A retired military man is facing cybercrime charges for using an image of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. in his vlog about an alleged ouster plot against President Marcos that went viral.

PNP public information office chief Col. Jean Fajardo said at a press briefing yesterday in Camp Crame that Acorda had already filed a complaint with the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office against vlogger Johnny Lacsamana Macanas Sr. for dissemination of false information using a photo of the PNP chief in a viral vlog regarding an alleged destabilization plot by disgruntled military officers and personnel.

Fajardo said the vlogger is a retired AFP member, but it was not immediately clear what his rank in the military was.

“We expect that the prosecutor’s office will send summons to the accused to give him time to respond to the complaint,” Fajardo said in Filipino.

She said the complaint against Macanas is for violation of Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, as amended by Republic Act 10591, in connection with Section 6 of the Cybercrime Law. She said an investigation is still ongoing to determine other possible case against Macanas.

“Misusing social media to spread false information for personal or political gain is unacceptable,” Fajardo said in Filipino.

Acorda, for his part, called out other content creators sowing disinformation on social media regarding alleged destabilization threats against the Marcos administration, saying their action is “unforgiveable.”

“It hurts me that there are people who, just to gain popularity in their vlogs, create disinformation. Posting unfounded claims such as the withdrawal of support or the resignation of the President is unforgivable,” Acorda said in Filipino in a speech during yesterday’s flag ceremony.

He underscored the sacrifices made by law enforcement in service to the nation, including working in challenging conditions to keep peace and promote the country’s development.

He emphasized that false narratives could adversely affect the country’s image and hinder efforts to attract investments and tourism.

“We don’t tolerate these things, and the people are counting on us. Our fellow citizens know that we are making sacrifices for the greater good. I hope for a little respect, even just for the uniform,” he said.

Acorda also called on law enforcers to maintain integrity and uphold the trust and confidence of the public.

The call for unity against disinformation, he said, resonates as a critical aspect of preserving the nation’s stability and security.

In an interview over radio dzBB, Fajardo said there is no evidence of any destabilization plot, and even the Armed Forces of the Philippines has denied the existence of such a plot.

Fajardo appealed to those spreading fake news and disinformation to be responsible for their actions, saying they could be criminally charged for violation of Cybercrime Prevention Act and face prison terms or fines ranging from P40,000 to P200,000 or both.

She stressed the PNP remains “apolitical, solid and ready to address any threats to national security.”