The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) and the RCEF ExtensionProgram have recently been targeted in a deceptive marketing ploy involving thecreation of fake accounts. Since Aug. 2, two pages have surfaced online falsely representing thesepublic institution and government program, promoting a product called“Super Seed Organic Fertilizer” and misleading the public. The fake pages falsely claim that Dr. Emil Q.Javier, a national scientist, endorsed the fertilizer as a groundbreakingproduct that would revolutionize agriculture and boost crop yields. Dr. John C. de Leon, PhilRice executive director, issued a stern warningregarding these misleading accounts. “It is disheartening to see the misuse of our institution’s nameand credibility in a marketing scheme. We urge the public to exercise cautionand verify information before trusting online sources. Our official channelsare the only reliable sources for updates and advisories related to ourprograms and services,” de Leon said. The public is advised to report the suspicious pages: bit.ly/fakePhilRiceand bit.ly/reportfakeRCEF on Facebook. PhilRice’s official account can be found at https://web.facebook.com/DAPhilRiceand the RCEF Extension Program’s official account is athttps://web.facebook.com/RCEFExt. These pages have reported the fake accountsto Facebook. “Our pages are committed to supporting the agricultural community withaccurate, science-based information and services. We appreciate the continuedtrust and support of the public and encourage everyone to be cautious ofmisinformation,” de Leon added.