The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating the source of a ‘fake report’ alleging a mass shooting at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas in Cavite on Thursday.
PNP chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Friday that the probe would determine who was behind the report and whether it was deliberately fabricated.
The report apparently circulated on social media and in group chats, he said.
‘Those who deliberately create or spread false information that causes public alarm may face appropriate legal consequences,’ he said.
‘Freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and should never be used to mislead the public,’ he added.
Nartatez also directed the Dasmariñas City police to maintain police visibility and intensify cyber patrols while identifying those responsible.
Shortly before noon Thursday, the Dasmariñas City police dismissed the alleged mass shooting report, saying their investigation found ‘no factual basis to substantiate the reported incident.’
Police also warned against linking the report to the death of a 24-year-old man whose body was found Wednesday evening inside a vehicle within the premises of the De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute in Barangay Burol Main.
Police recorded the case as an alleged suicide and said the man had a history of mental health problems and was reportedly undergoing treatment.
Nartatez urged the public to verify information before sharing it on social media.