ILOILO – The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has again issued a warning to the public against circulating unverified reports of alleged child abductions.
Those found responsible for spreading false reports may face criminal charges, warned IPPO provincial director Police Colonel Bayani Razalan.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over false claims that have sparked unnecessary panic among residents.
During a virtual meeting on March 3, Razalan called on Chiefs of Police, Force Commanders, and Provincial Staff to address the matter.
He underscored the dangers of misinformation, particularly in cases where minors have fabricated abduction stories to avoid punishment from their parents.
In response to the increasing number of hoaxes, the police have heightened security, including a stronger presence around schools, and are collaborating closely with barangay tanods.
Additionally, the IPPO has launched public awareness campaigns, urging parents and communities to educate children on the importance of honesty and responsible social media use.
“We all have a role to play in preventing the spread of false information. Always verify reports before sharing, and rely only on credible sources,” said Razalan.
The IPPO assured the public that they will continue to investigate all reports thoroughly while advocating for responsible information-sharing practices./PN
