The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday warned the public against spreading misinformation and engaging in online incitement that could trigger violence or undermine public order as the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte begins.

PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, intelligence units and all Police Regional Offices to strengthen monitoring of online activities that may incite violence, target government institutions or threaten public officials in connection with the impeachment proceedings.

"Disinformation that seeks to incite violence or undermine our democratic institutions is a direct threat to public safety. The PNP is utilizing 24/7 cyber patrolling to identify and neutralize malicious narratives intended to deceive the public," Nartatez said.

The Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, is set to open the trial of Vice President Duterte on Monday, 6 July.

The PNP has deployed about 6,000 police personnel around the Senate complex and other key areas to secure the proceedings and manage anticipated public demonstrations.

Nartatez said intelligence monitoring has also been intensified to detect online calls for violence, attacks against government institutions and threats directed at public officials involved in the impeachment process.

He said local police commanders have been instructed to promptly validate and address viral false information that could create panic or provoke disorder in their respective areas of responsibility.

"We urge the public to be discerning. Before sharing any information regarding these proceedings, verify it through official channels to avoid becoming a tool for those who wish to disrupt the rule of law," Nartatez said.

The PNP chief also underscored that the police force will remain politically neutral throughout the impeachment proceedings and will focus solely on maintaining peace and order, protecting democratic institutions and ensuring public safety.