AFP chief warns netizens vs disinformation drive

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner Jr. | PHOTO: Official facebook page of AFP

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner on Friday gave a stern warning to Filipinos with regards the “alarming surge” in disinformation campaigns against the military and the government aimed to erode “the public’s trust in our institution.”

“These efforts seek to sow panic, divide our nation and distract us from pressing issues that demand our collective attention,” Brawner said in a statement, without giving details to specific incidents.

He told the public to remain vigilant and critical of the information they encounter and share.

“Disinformation not only distorts the truth but also undermines our unity, making us vulnerable to external challenges that threaten our national security and stability,” he said.

He added people should verify sources and seek information from credible and official channels.

“Let us stand together in the face of these desperate attempts to spread discord,” he said.

He assured Filipinos the AFP remains committed to its duty in protecting the nation and upholding the peace and security agenda of President Marcos.

“We call on every Filipino to join us in this endeavor, fostering a spirit of solidarity and resilience against those who wish to weaken our resolve,” he said.

READ: Eleazar calls for youth revolution vs online disinformation: ‘Don’t let trolls insult your intelligence’

Earlier this week, the military advised the public on the “importance of verifying information and providing proper context before sharing it” after a photo of a Philippine Navy helicopter dropping supplies on BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal circulated online.

Col. Xerxes Trinidad, chief of the AFP public affairs office, said the photo was from the Dec. 26, 2021, Christmas mission in the West Philippine Sea and was “not related to any current events.”