Take it from credible source

AS CHAIR of the House Committee on Public Information, I join the call of NDRRMC to stop entertaining and forwarding fake news in relation to the recent Taal volcanic activity. At all times, but more particularly during these times of disasters and emergencies, our real ally is accurate and truthful information.

Science and facts are our best friends with this Taal volcano eruption. Armed with accurate and truthful information, we will not only survive but rise above these tragedies, both individually or collectively.

Let us be cautious and be critical with information which is not from official sources. And DO NOT share fake news and alarmist messages in Twitter, texts, and Facebook. Share only those facts-based posts of Phivolcs, DOST, NAIA, NDRRMC, local governments, other official government accounts, and the major mainstream news media.

Ignore the crackpots, doomsday alarmists, and fanatics about the end times. Sayang lang ang load at data ninyo sa pagshe-share ng mga ganyang messages.

Be aware that many alarmist messages contain malware, phishing hooks, and computer viruses. Never click on suspicious messages, pictures, and links even from your trusted friends who may be been victims of hacking or unaware about malware.

As for those who love creating and disseminating fake news, be prepared as there will soon be a law criminalizing and punishing this illegal act. Meantime, you may be rendered civilly or administratively liable by your victims.

-- REP. RON P. SALO, KABAYAN Party-list Chair, Committee on Public Information