BACOLOD CITY — The Bacolod City Police Office has again warned the public against spreading false information, saying such acts can cause panic and damage the city’s reputation.
This came after reports circulated online about the alleged abduction and rape of a 25-year-old college student, based on claims made by one of her relatives.
Following an investigation, police confirmed that the incident did not happen.
Initial reports alleged that the woman was forcibly taken into a vehicle along San Juan Street on the night of May 31.
Police Col. Joeresty Coronica, BCPO director, refuted the claims, saying that no evidence supported the allegations.
He added that a medical examination yielded negative results and suggested that personal issues may have motivated the false report.
Coronica said the case is now closed, with the woman’s family expressing no interest in pursuing further investigation.
“Incidents like these damage the image of Bacolod and unfairly reflect on our police force,” he said.
He also said the BCPO is working with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Management Unit and their legal officer to determine the appropriate legal action.
He emphasized the need to verify information before sharing it and said false reports do not reflect the true peace and order situation in Bacolod.
“We are considering filing charges to hold those responsible accountable,” Coronica said.
“We want to send a clear message to anyone who fabricates stories.” (Glazyl Jopson via tdg)