Basilan, Philippines – The Provincial Government of Basilan (PGB) has issued an official statement condemning the unauthorized use of its official logo in an online election survey. The survey, which falsely appeared to have been sanctioned by the local government, has been denounced as misleading and deceptive.
According to the statement, PGB had no involvement in the creation or release of the said survey and did not authorize the use of its insignia. The government emphasized that such an act is a serious offense and warned that appropriate legal actions, including the filing of a cyberlibel case, are being considered against those responsible for the misuse of its logo.
The statement further stressed that fake election surveys serve as propaganda tools designed to manipulate public perception rather than reflect the true will of the people. As such, PGB strongly condemned this deceptive practice and urged residents to remain vigilant against disinformation, especially as election season approaches.
This clarification came after the survey in question showed Mujiv Hataman leading over the incumbent Governor Jay Salliman Hataman. The results of the survey, now disputed, have raised concerns about the spread of misinformation in the province.
The PGB also reaffirmed that its official page is solely dedicated to providing legitimate information and updates on development initiatives. The public is advised to rely only on credible sources and verify any information before sharing it.
Authorities are now investigating the source of the fake survey to hold those accountable for spreading false information under the guise of official endorsement.
