Photo credit: Official website of Davao

The Davao City Government isn’t holding back in calling out media organizations for spreading what it says is outright fake news. In a strong statement, the city government refuted reports from outlets like Manila Bulletin, Politiko, DZMM Teleradyo, News5, Bombo Radyo, DWRB 103.9 News FM, and K5 National/International News, which mistakenly linked Davao City to the illegal registration of Chinese nationals in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

Let’s set the record straight: The Davao City Civil Registrar’s Office (CRO) has zero jurisdiction over birth registrations processed in other cities or municipalities—including those in Davao del Sur. Yet, some reports irresponsibly cited the office in connection to the case.

To clarify further, the National Bureau of Investigation Region 11 (NBI-11) has already confirmed that charges have been filed before the Office of the Ombudsman in Mindanao against employees of the Municipality of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, not Davao City.

House Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur also backed up this correction, clarifying that the individuals charged in connection to the fake birth certificates were employees from Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur—not from Davao City.

With these facts on the table, Davao City is urging media organizations to practice responsible journalism and verify information before publishing misleading reports. The city government remains firm in its commitment to transparency and ensuring the integrity of its public services.

In short? Davao City wants the public to know: They had nothing to do with this mess, so let’s get the facts straight.