COMELEC-NIR Rallies Security Forces and Media to Combat Election Disinformation
BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – In a decisive move to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming May 12 midterm elections, the Commission on Elections in the Negros Island Region (COMELEC-NIR) has issued a directive urging enhanced cooperation between security forces, including the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the media. This collaborative effort aims to effectively combat the proliferation of fake news and disinformation, which poses a significant threat to the credibility of the electoral process.
Leading the charge against misinformation, COMELEC-NIR Director Lionel Marco Castillano echoed the call of COMELEC Chairperson George Erwin Garcia, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to counter false narratives. Castillano stressed the need for security agencies to ensure accessibility for media personnel and to leverage their own social media platforms for disseminating accurate and timely information. This strategy seeks to preemptively address and debunk false claims that could erode public trust in the electoral system.
Highlighting the potential damage of disinformation, Castillano warned that such tactics could undermine the acceptability of the election results and ultimately jeopardize democratic processes. While acknowledging the inherent transparency of the electoral system, he noted that certain sectors, including some candidates, have expressed concerns regarding the automated voting system, particularly alleging its vulnerability to hacking. These unsubstantiated claims, if left unchecked, could fuel public distrust and cast shadows on the validity of the election outcomes.
During the NIR Regional Joint Security Control Center (RJSCC) meeting held at the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, Castillano addressed members of the security forces, urging them to provide media outlets with accurate and up-to-date information regarding the election proceedings. Emphasizing the critical role of security personnel in maintaining order and ensuring a peaceful and credible election, he instructed designated spokespersons within the various commands to remain readily available to the media. This consistent communication strategy aims to reassure the public of the effectiveness of both the democratic and electoral processes.
Castillano provided specific guidelines regarding the type of information suitable for public dissemination through the media, encompassing incidents occurring before, during, and after the elections. This includes details pertaining to crimes, security concerns, and violations of election regulations, such as the COMELEC gun ban and other prohibitions. By providing timely and accurate updates on these matters, the authorities aim to maintain transparency and address any potential public concerns promptly and effectively.
While stressing the importance of information sharing, Castillano also recognized the need for discretion. He clarified that confidential information, which could compromise security operations, should not be disclosed. However, he encouraged the release of statistical data and other non-sensitive information whenever feasible. This balanced approach seeks to uphold transparency while protecting the integrity of sensitive information. He further recommended leveraging official social media accounts and designated information officers within the police, military, and other related agencies as additional channels for disseminating information to the public. This multi-faceted approach aims to ensure widespread access to accurate information and effectively combat the spread of disinformation.