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PROI agencies launch 24/7 client crisis hotline to mitigate rise of misinformation, fake news
February 15, 2022 5:25 p.m.
With the increased use of social media platforms and messaging apps, the volume of misinformation and fake news through online media will be on an uptrend in the coming year. PROI network, the largest global partnership of independent agencies, calls on organizations to prioritise this emerging crisis type.
To help companies tackle misinformation crises before they escalate and grow, PROI announces the roll-out of a dedicated 24/7 client crisis hotline.
Misinformation crises display a common thread – they proliferate primarily through online media, such as social media platforms and messaging apps.
• In 20191 , UK’s Metro Bank was the victim of a fake news campaign where news of its impending shutdown went viral via the hugely popular WhatsApp messaging app. Within hours, various bank branches saw panicked customers attempting to withdraw their savings or to empty their safe deposit boxes. The bank’s share price suffered a severe drop due to the negative perceptions and market panic.
• In 2020 , Facebook removed a network of fake pages and accounts allegedly operated by Vietnamese telco group Viettel Group for the purposes of discrediting their competitors.
• Throughout 2020 – 2022, a slew of misinformation has also been released about the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination information.
• Agencies can feel free to customise relevant newsMisinformation such as rumors of data breaches, fake vaccine products and company crises offer ripe opportunities for malicious agents to take advantage.
According to Check Point Software 2022 Cyber-security Predictions , the volume of advertisement groups for fake vaccines have multiplied within 2021. On top of that, cyber groups will continue to leverage these types of fake news campaigns to execute cybercrime through various phishing attacks and scams.
Companies who stay on top of fake news will thus not only protect themselves from misinformation adversely affecting their companies, but also protect themselves against agents exploiting misinformation for vulnerabilities.
The 24-7 crisis hotline offered by PROI agencies will provide a first response for companies seeking advice in times of misinformation and be a useful tool in mitigating such crises. The hotline is manned directly by PR practitioners from around the region, clients may seek support at +65 8885 9528 or find their local PROI representative here.
“Looking ahead, organizations should be cognizant of the threats and ensure that they have in place a crisis preparedness plan that includes fake news and misinformation. It is imperative to stay ahead of threats and be proactive in developing a crisis preparedness plan before a crisis hit. Once it hits, the plan comes to activation, and you’ll have to fix it fast,” said Karin Lohitnavy, Founder and Master Connector, Midas PR Group.
“Organizations confront with issues and crisis including fake news at varying degree. However, when poorly handled no matter the degree of severity; an issue may turn into a full-blown crisis and may worsen to jeopardise the viability of a business,” added Jojo S. Nugroho, Managing Director, Imogen PR (Indonesia).
PROI agencies have consistently proven itself on some of the world and the region’s most demanding strategic crisis communication projects. Our clients include a range of publicly listed international companies, government-owned energy companies, medium sized businesses, start-ups, government departments, and not-for-profit organisations.
“At PROI, the world’s largest partnership of PR agencies, with 75 locally owned, independent consultancies present in 50 countries and 110 cities across the globe, we can deploy and draw a multi-disciplinary set of skills, experiences and resource around the globe,” said Lena Soh-Ng, PROI Crisis Group, APAC, Co-Chair and Senior Advisor and Founding Partner of Distilleri (Singapore).
“Planning is absolutely crucial. Planning for fake news attack is comparable to preparing for a media crisis; be prepared for every possible situation, have a competent media team ready, and appoint trained and dedicated spokespeople who deliver a consistent message and response to all queries,” said Doy Roque, M2.0 Communications Inc (Philippines).
“We strongly believe the most effective crisis preparedness plan is achieved through a close and trusted working partnership, where threats are identified, considered and planned for. A clear focus on priority risks, the establishment of a process that allows ongoing transparency of emerging risks, and the continual building of the organisation’s team capability, will fortify a comprehensive Crisis Preparedness Plan,” Elaine Chuah, Executive Director, Priority Communications PR Sdn Bhd (Malaysia).
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Tesla Cybertruck winner bought 10 units of HONOR X9d 5G
2:56 p.m. April 21, 2026
Global leading AI device brand HONOR handed over the coveted Tesla Cybertruck to the winner of the HONOR X9d 5G “Win A Tesla Cybertruck” promo that ran during the toughest phone’s pre-order period January 9 to 23, 2026.
“The HONOR X9d 5G is our biggest win this year, and it continues to stand out in its category with its ultra-tough build, engineered to withstand everyday drops and pressure, making it a reliable companion for users with active lifestyles. This awarding marked a milestone not only for us, but also to our growing community of Filipino fans,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
Launched as part of HONOR’s effort to bring excitement to the Filipino market, the HONOR X9d 5G Win-A-Tesla Cybertruck promo captured nationwide attention, drawing strong participation from consumers eager to experience the smartphone’s exceptional durability, long-lasting battery life, and sleek design—while also getting a chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime prize.
The much-anticipated turnover celebrated excitement and the rewarding experience that HONOR continues to bring to its consumers. The grand winner, Lorelyn Felonia, who purchased 10 pieces of HONOR X9d 5G during the promo period, drove home not just a powerful smartphone but also one of the rarest vehicles in the world.
To award the multi-million prize were HONOR Philippines Country Manager Sean Yuan, Digital Marketing Manager and Content Lead Eason De Guzman.
With the successful conclusion of the campaign, HONOR Philippines looks forward to launching more exciting initiatives that combine cutting-edge technology with equally compelling rewards to its loyal HONOR fans.
To learn more about this exciting news, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.
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#GCashTipidTips: DOTr-mandated 50% discounted MRT-3 fares can be availed via GCash
6:15 p.m. April 18, 2026
STARTING April 23, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has implemented a discounted fare matrix for single-journey tickets, stored-value cards, and cashless payments in response to rising consumer prices.
Passengers of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) can easily avail of the discounted fare via the GCash app by using the GCash Commute QR, NFC-enabled Android phone, or GCash Visa card. Commuters can skip the ticketing booth lines and go directly to the platforms, making travel more convenient and seamless.
The GCash payment schemes have been up and running at MRT-3 since July last year, providing commuters with cashless options for their daily travels.
The goal is simple: to make everyday transactions more affordable, accessible, and seamless for Filipinos.
For more information, please visit https://help.gcash.com/hc/en-us/articles/49102305024025-Can-I-use-GCash-for-transportation
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DigiPlus levels up user engagement with ArenaPlus’ P1B Prediction Giveaway
5:10 p.m. April 7, 2026
DigiPlus Interactive Corp., the country’s pioneer and leader in digital entertainment, through its flagship sportsbook platform ArenaPlus, formally launched its P1 Billion Prediction Giveaway last Saturday, March 21, heralding a major step-up in its customer acquisition and retention strategy.
This initiative is anchored by a high-stakes prediction challenge designed to invite new users onto ArenaPlus, while also deepening player participation and reinforcing brand leadership in the Philippine online sportsbook space. Central to this campaign is the introduction of a localized tournament bracket game—a staple in American sports culture that ArenaPlus is pioneering for the local market.
“We want to bring some excitement for the Filipino basketball fans, especially since we know that the NBA is the most popular sport here. The bracket game is actually very common in the US. It’s been running there constantly for years, but the Philippines has never had that experience. We want to bring that here,” said ArenaPlus Head Erick Su.
By offering the ₱1 Billion Prediction Giveaway as a free-to-play initiative, DigiPlus enables fans to engage in the tournament without any monetary commitment. Su emphasized that the campaign is designed to provide a safe, entertainment-led experience, with the bracket format sustaining interest from the opening round of the Playoffs through the Finals, where one team ultimately prevails.
“I think the excitement will be from beginning to the end. Because the bracket game covers the whole stage of the Playoffs, fans can expand their predictions and go along with the whole process and expect that they can win,” Su said. “So that’s going to bring a lot of excitement. And this is completely free and very safe as we want to entertain Filipinos.”
Amplifying the campaign that launched at Mall of Asia Sky Deck Amphitheater in Pasay City was premier host and actor Luis “Lucky” Manzano, who was also introduced as ArenaPlus’ latest brand ambassador. Joining Manzano were fellow endorsers Gilas Pilipinas naturalized player Justin Brownlee, multi-time champion assistant coach Bong Ravena, and his son, international pro Thirdy, who are effectively raising ArenaPlus’ visibility while also broadening the brand’s demographic reach.
“At ArenaPlus, we are relentless with our commitment to elevate our players’ experience, making sports more fulfilling, more immersive, and more rewarding for every Filipino,” said ArenaPlus Marketing Head Hannah Bagui as ArenaPlus continues to differentiate itself by pioneering accessible digital sports entertainment.
While the campaign is designed to drive wide participation, ArenaPlus emphasized that it intends to maintain strict platform integrity through its rigorous eKYC (electronic Know Your Customer) process. Such a guardrail bolsters an already rich suite of responsible gaming tools built into ArenaPlus, such as options to set daily gaming durations, customize specific gaming schedules, and establish daily loss limits. This ensures that while the campaign achieves great reach, it does so within a secure, transparent, and compliant environment that builds trust.
Through these strategic customer activations and continuous platform innovation, DigiPlus Interactive Corp. continues to solidify its legacy as the definitive pioneer of the Philippine digital entertainment industry, driving growth while also redefining user engagement
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