National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago, November 29,2024. Maria Tan, ABS-CBN News/File 

MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation said Wednesday it would coordinate with the International Criminal Police Organization to further address the spread of fake news.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago said Interpol notices could help track the activities of suspects involved in spreading fake news, creating altered content, and engaging in other fraudulent activities.

“Alam niyo ang Interpol, hindi lang ‘yan tungkol sa pag-aresto. Meron kaming tinatawag na green notice, orange notice, ‘yun ‘yung pinapamanmanan na namin ng tao na target namin ‘yung mga activities niya,” he said.

“Okay lang ‘yung magbigay sila ng comment, that is part of freedom of speech and expression. Pero ‘yung lumalampas na sila, nag-i-spread na sila ng false news that is violation under our Revised Penal Code particularly unlawful use of publication at remember that these vloggers kumukita sila depende sa viewers nila,” he added. 

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Santiago noted the complexities of handling cases involving international figures.

“Merong vlogger na naka-base sa US and then US citizen pa. In the US, libel is not a criminal offense but a civil case. So, how do we request to extradite a US citizen when it's not even a crime in their country?" he pointed out.

He said that the NBI would continue to investigate these cases and seek Interpol's assistance if necessary.

"We are looking into other cases, including sedition and unlawful activities. Once we secure a warrant of arrest, we will coordinate with Interpol for further assistance,” the official said.

The NBI last week said it was probing at least 20 individuals who spread "fake news" on various issues, including the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity cases before the International Criminal Court.

NBI vows to go after individuals spreading fake news