Surigao Del Norte Second District Representative Robert Ace Barbers has launched a scathing attack on what he calls “narco trolls” – social media attackers allegedly funded by drug lords and Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO).
In his privilege speech at the plenary, Barbers criticized these trolls for spreading lies, causing chaos, and manipulating public opinion.
“Narco trolls funded by drug lords!” Barbers exclaimed, highlighting the malicious and destructive propaganda being disseminated online. He clarified that while the Quad Committee is open to criticism, it draws the line at defamation.
Barbers pointed out the suspicious flood of comments and misinformation on social media, suggesting that these are paid efforts. He emphasized the need for government agencies to be proactive in investigating cybercrimes, rather than waiting for complaints to be filed.
Barbers has called on the National Bureau of Investigation to identify, investigate, and prosecute vloggers allegedly paid with drug money and POGO earnings to spread falsehoods on social media. This move aims to curb the influence of cybercriminals and protect the public from manipulated information.
