Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong Urges Criminal Prosecution for Spreaders of Fake Energy Lockdown Rumors

Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong calls for the prosecution of individuals spreading "energy lockdown" rumors, as the Palace debunks viral misinformation.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 7, 2026, 8:28 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Inquirer.net

Misinformation as a Threat to National Stability

Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Zia Alonto Adiong has issued a stern warning against the deliberate spread of rumors concerning a potential "energy lockdown" in the Philippines. According to a statement released on Monday, Adiong categorized these false claims not as mere misinformation, but as a direct attack on public order. He argued that fabricated narratives about fuel supply and energy pricing risk inciting mass panic and distorting markets at a time when the nation requires stability. The lawmaker emphasized that such actions transcend free speech when they endanger public safety, calling for strict legal consequences for those who intentionally mislead the population during a period of national concern.

Palace Debunks Viral Energy Lockdown Advisory

The government's response follows a viral "announcement" falsely attributed to the Department of Energy (DOE) which claimed a lockdown would commence on April 20, 2026. The fraudulent advisory urged citizens to stockpile power banks, solar equipment, and food supplies in anticipation of a total energy shutdown. Palace press officer Claire Castro officially clarified that no such directive exists, labeling the circulation as "mere fake news." The administration is moving to prevent the spread of these narratives, which officials say are designed to exploit the current energy landscape and cause unnecessary distress among ordinary Filipinos already dealing with rising costs.

Legal Framework and Potential Penalties for Cybercrimes

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) has announced its intention to pursue legal action against anyone found maliciously fabricating or sharing these stories. PCO Secretary Dave Gomez warned that social media users could be held accountable under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalizes the publication of false news with up to six months of imprisonment. Furthermore, Gomez noted that penalties may be significantly increased under Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act, which applies when such offenses are committed through online platforms. This legal push is intended to serve as a deterrent against those attempting to profit from or incite chaos through digital deception.