Council cautions public amid spread of malicious, misleading posts

THE 21st City Council of Cagayan de Oro is calling on the public to stay vigilant amid a surge of malicious misinformation and disi

nformation circulating on social media in recent days.

Several posts—both from individual accounts and Facebook pages—have been spreading misleading captions and manipulated content targeting members of the Council. These false posts have contributed to public confusion and have unfairly created suspicion toward the local legislature. Among the most circulated fabrications is the false claim that the Council approved a move to declare journalist Jessica Soho persona non grata over the Mega Health Center issue.

Majority Floor Leader Councilor Edgar Cabanlas raised concern that such posts appear intentionally crafted to mislead the public, damage the reputation of the Council, and distort the real issues at hand.

The Council stressed that while Kagay-anons have every right to engage in public discourse and voice their opinions, these discussions must be grounded in facts. Members reiterated that legitimate concerns can be properly addressed through the appropriate committees, and the public can always verify information through official sources—such as the City Secretary’s Office and the official City Council page—rather than relying on unverified online content.

Councilor Marlo Tabac likewise appealed to the community to refrain from creating or spreading false information that harms the city and misleads residents.

As the viral falsehood continues to circulate, the Council urges the public to rely on verified information and avoid sharing unconfirmed claims. (SPE/SP)