The Philippine National Police (PNP) has warned the public against the spread of unverified and misleading photos and videos online purportedly showing the impact of Super Typhoon Uwan and the earlier Typhoon Tino.

On Monday, PNP Chief P/LtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez urged netizens to verify information before sharing it on social media, noting that several materials circulating online have been altered or are deepfake content.

“The PNP warns the public against posting or sharing unverified videos online on the supposed impact of Super Typhoon Uwan. Be discerning, as some of these are deepfake videos that may cause fear or alarm among our fellow citizens,” Nartatez said.

The warning came after the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) clarified that a viral photo showing an elderly couple stranded in floodwaters was taken in Mexico, not in the Philippines as claimed in social media posts.

Nartatez said the PNP continues to support government efforts to maintain public safety and situational awareness during calamities.

He reminded the public that spreading false information, whether intentional or not, can cause unnecessary panic and mislead communities responding to disasters.

He also cautioned that posting or sharing false content online may have legal consequences under existing laws on cybercrime and public order.

“Not everything you see online is true, so we must exercise extra caution. Sharing misinformation or fake news on social media can also be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he added.