Bataeños are reminded that intentional creation, dissemination, and propagation of fake news and harmful rumors are prohibited under Provincial Ordinance No. 15, Series of 2025, or the Anti-Fake News and Harmful Rumors Ordinance of Bataan.

Said Ordinance aims to curb the harmful effects of disinformation and rumor-mongering, particularly during critical events such as disasters, public health emergencies, and peace and order situations, where the rapid spread of false information can cause fear, confusion, and public harm.

Prohibited acts include creating or sharing fake news and harmful rumors, spreading false information during critical events, using fake or anonymous accounts to spread disinformation, and refusing to remove false content after being notified by authorities. Violators face a fine of PHP3,000 for the first offense, PHP4,000 for the second offense, and PHP5,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than six months for the third offense, subject to the court’s discretion.

The Ordinance provides exceptions for content shared in good faith based on credible sources, clearly labeled satire or parody, and private communications not intended for public dissemination, upholding the constitutional right to freedom of speech.

Residents are encouraged to verify information before sharing especially on social media, and to report suspected fake news or harmful rumors through the 1Bataan Facebook page, the eTanong platform of the Bataeño Pass, or to the Provincial Information Office at The Bunker.

Authored and sponsored by Board Member Jomar L. Gaza, J.D., the Ordinance forms part of the Province’s efforts to promote truth, accountability, and responsible information dissemination among the public.

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