MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Saturday denied reports of kidnapping of "high-profile business personalities" and warned that "spreading fake news is a criminal offense."

Kidnap-for-ransom 'resurgence' could hurt economy, VACC warns

"There is no truth to these reports about the alleged kidnapping of business personalities. Such malicious disinformation will not be tolerated. Anyone proven to be spreading fake news will be dealt with accordingly,” PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said.

The PNP said they now are identifying the sources of the false information circulating on social media. 

"Authorities are closely monitoring the spread of these false narratives and are now taking steps to identify and hold accountable those responsible for creating and sharing these misleading stories," the PNP said in a press release. 

'Nakakasira sa bayan': Fil-Chinese bizman wants death penalty for kidnappers

"The PNP reminds the public that spreading fake news is a criminal offense and those proven to have done so will face legal consequences," they added.

The PNP in recent months recorded scores of kidnapping cases, some of which involved Chinese nationals as victims.

Recently, the country was gripped by the kidnapping and murder of Filipino-Chinese businessman Anson Que, who was found dead in Rodriguez, Rizal.

Anti-crime advocacy group Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption warned earlier that the "resurgence" of kidnap-for-ransom cases in the Philippines could hurt the nation's economy.

RELATED VIDEO