The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Thursday denied circulating online claims that it is distributing air-conditioning units to beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), saying the posts were based on AI-generated images and false information.

During the DSWD media forum on May 7, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao urged the public to be more critical of information being shared on social media, warning that unverified posts could contribute to the spread of disinformation and social division.

“Unang-una nais po natin banggitin na hindi po sana tayo, o mas maging maingat po sana tayo sa pag-review, pag-usisa, pag-verify ng mga information na nakikita po natin sa social media,” Dumlao said.

She emphasized that the public should rely only on official government communication platforms for accurate updates on government programs and services.

“Mas maging mapanuri po sana tayo, tumingin tayo sa mga official communication platforms ng ating pong pamahalaan,” she added, stressing that misinformation could contribute to “destabilization in our country” and widen social gaps among sectors of society.

Dumlao reiterated the agency’s campaign slogan, “tamang tulong sa tamang impormasyon,” as she appealed for unity and responsible sharing of online content.

When asked directly if the circulating claims were fake, Dumlao gave a categorical denial.

“Ang Department of Social Welfare and Development ay hindi po namamahagi ng air conditioning units sa ating mga 4Ps beneficiaries,” she said.

The agency has not announced any program involving the distribution of airconditioning units to 4Ps households and reminded the public to verify information before sharing it online.