"We categorically clarify that the reported incident shown in the circulating post did not transpire within the Area of Responsibility of the Davao City Police Office, nor did such an operation occur in Davao City," the DCPO said in a statement released Monday afternoon, May 18.
DCPO Chief Colonel Peter Madria said the the information being spread online is false and has no verified basis from the Davao City Police Office or any legitimate law enforcement report within the city.
Madria reminded the public to exercise responsibility and discernment before sharing or reposting information on social media platforms.
He said the spread of false information, fake news, and unverified content causes unnecessary alarm, confusion, and misinformation among the public, while also undermining the integrity of legitimate law enforcement operations.
"In line with our commitment to protect public order and preserve truthful information dissemination, the Davao City Police Office is already coordinating with the Cybercrime Unit for proper investigation and legal evaluation regarding the origin and circulation of the misleading social media post, " he said.
" We likewise remind the public that individuals who deliberately create, publish, or spread false information online may be held liable under existing laws, including provisions of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10175) and other applicable laws and ordinances concerning the malicious dissemination of fake news and false information."
The statement is issued to protect the public from misinformation, maintain transparency, preserve public trust, and ensure that only verified and factual information is disseminated to the community.
The Davao City Police Office remains steadfast in upholding truth, maintaining peace and order, and protecting every Dabawenyo from misinformation and unlawful online activities.