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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.
Malacañang said disinformation during an energy emergency undermines public trust, disrupts markets and threatens the welfare of Filipinos.
“There will be zero tolerance for those who maliciously and deliberately commit these acts to advance their personal or political vested interest,” Gomez said.
The PCO’s anti-fake news desk, formed in coordination with the Department of Justice, is preparing to file cases against individuals who “flagrantly disseminate deceptive information or manipulate markets.”
Authorities are also intensifying monitoring of social media and other information platforms to detect coordinated disinformation campaigns.
Gomez urged Filipinos to rely on official briefings and verified sources, warning that careless sharing of unverified posts could cause public harm.
“To every Filipino on social media: stop and think before you post or hit 'share.' In these difficult times, sharing unverified posts can cause public harm. So, always verify information through official government channels before you spread it,” Gomez said.
The Malacañang official also said the government remains committed to transparent and timely communication on energy developments.
“Our ultimate obligation is to safeguard the stability of energy supply, protect consumers and uphold democratic processes,” Gomez said.
The warning comes as fuel prices are expected to surge further, with diesel projected to increase by as much as P17 to P19 per liter this week, potentially pushing regular diesel prices to around P165 per liter and premium diesel beyond P170.
