Motorists line up at several gasoline stations along major roads in Metro Manila, including Quirino Highway, EDSA in Pasay, and parts of Manila, on March 9, 2026 as fuel prices are expected to surge the following day.
The STAR / Ryan Baldemor
MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang warned it would pursue legal action against individuals spreading false claims of an “energy lockdown” as soaring fuel prices and tensions in the Middle East fuel public anxiety.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez said on Sunday, April 5, that the government would not tolerate fabricated reports linking supposed lockdowns to fuel shortages or a new COVID-19 variant.
“In light of the current energy landscape, we warn anyone who deliberately fabricates stories and spreads fake news online to exploit the situation that they will be held to account to the fullest extent of the law,” Gomez said.
He said that any attempt to mislead the public about energy security, supply, or pricing “to sow confusion” would be treated as a serious offense, especially as the country grapples with rising fuel costs tied to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Gomez reminded the public that publishing false information is punishable under Revised Penal Code, carrying up to six months in prison. If committed online, penalties may increase to one year under Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
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