By Mae Singuay

The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Bacolod encourages public officials, government entities and public figures to exercise extreme caution in their cyber dealings.

Councilor Jason Villarosa said cyber dealings include the use of social media and the internet.

The SP passed a resolution on Wednesday, August 23, requesting the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for assistance regarding the matter.

Villarosa said the public is aware the MassKara Festival’s Facebook page has been hacked.

The account has been posting inappropriate content.

Recently, the social media account of Negros Occidental 3rd District Representative Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez has succumbed the same.

The councilor said public officials’ social media accounts may now be deemed extensions of their offices where they can maintain connections with the general public.

He added it is observed that cyber attacks have now been frequent, not only targeting private individuals, but also those higher government officials.

The help and assistance from DICT are requested to prevent adverse effects on harmonious dealings with the public sector, the councilor stressed./MS, WDJ