MANILA, Philippines — Individuals who started and deliberately spread rumors that the government will place the country in an energy lockdown should face consequences as such actions threaten national stability, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said on Monday.
Adiong in a statement said that making false claims about fuel prices and the country’s energy situation is no longer “mere misinformation” but a move that may incite panic and affect the economy.
“This is not mere misinformation. This is a direct attack on public order and national stability,” Adiong said. “When you spread false claims about energy supply or pricing, you risk inciting panic, distorting markets, and eroding public trust at a time when the country needs clarity and unity the most.”
“There must be consequences. Those who intentionally mislead the public during a national emergency are not exercising free speech; they are endangering the public,” he added.
As early as last Friday, Malacañang had already clarified that a circulating “announcement” supposedly from the Department of Energy (DOE), claiming there would be an energy lockdown starting April 20, 2026, is not true.
Palace press officer Claire Castro told reporters through Viber that the advisory — which urged the public to prepare power banks, solar equipment, candles, lamps, food, and other essentials in anticipation of the energy lockdown — is mere fake news.
According to Adiong, consequences are necessary because “false narratives can...
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