Barangay tanod nabbed for spreading COVID-19 rumor in Palayan City

A barangay tanod was arrested in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija for spreading false information that there was a positive case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the area, police said on Wednesday.

Authorities identified the suspect as Vener Cortez, 42.

Elements of the Palayan City Police Station conducted operation against Cortez after the latter posted false information in his social media account that there was a confirmed case of the disease in Palayan City.

The false report sow fear among residents in the area.

The suspect will be facing charges for Violation of Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code (Unlawful use of means of Publication and Unlawful Utterances) in relation to Republic Act 10175 (Cybercrime Law).

The Philippine National Police has been urging the public not to spread fake news or any unverified information during this state of public health emergency.

A task force was already created to go after individuals spreading fake news. —LDF, GMA News