Chain Message Blues

10.15.2011 1:43 PM

Since not all news are broadcast or published thru the traditional media, text messaging and internet postings were two of the best means in disseminating information at present. 

But the only thing that's quite disappointing is some messages were barely unconfirmed and at times, untrue. 

It’s not the typical chain message which there are religious conditions or what-so-ever. I’m talking about being a tipster (literally) on such criminal incidents. 

Just my short take on this: It’s not bad to spread messages to anyone concerned, but everything has to be confirmed and certified true and correct. Yes, right before it goes wild like a wildfire.

Just like this message that I read few minutes ago. It tackled about a syndicate kidnapping children and even women, leading to possible murder and rape cases in addition. 

Apparently, I heard that on a radio program called Wanted sa Radyo, wherein Raffy Tulfo hurriedly interrupt his co-host Niña Taduran following the said text message. Here it goes (in Filipino language).

ATTENTION: PAKIKALAT PO ANG PLATE NUMBER NG MGA NANGUNGUHA NG BATA PATI NG MGA DALAGA KINUKUHA
GREEN VAN: XMM 507
WHITE VAN: XVM 351
FROM PULIS STATION LUNA LA UNION
NOTE: KUNG MAY MAG-ALOK NG PABANGO NA PWEDE UTANGIN LALO NA KUNG DI KILALA WAG AAMUYIN. MAHIHILO ANG AAMOY NA PARAAN NG MGA NANGUNGUHA NG BATA/DALAGA. GALING PO ITO SA PNP. SPREAD THE NEWS. PLEASE PASS.

Hmmm… it could almost sounded true and legit, except for the plate numbers. 

Why? There should be a validation process. It should be confirmed first by any of the witnesses. And thru verifying this, the police should ask the Land Transportation Office about the mentioned plates and check everything about it. 

There could be a big possibility of having a big bluff in case the plate numbers are mistyped or worse, been spread all over.

Another angle may be some people might use the police for any not-so-good purpose per se. Well, I’m not totally complaining against this; ‘cause I am definitely aware this crime do really exists, especially nowadays. It’s better be prepared anyway. 

But here’s the better deal: let’s all be aware that syndicates like this can change their trend of committing crimes thru switching vehicles, manipulating messages, or even power-tripping over the authority. 

Bottomline: Let’s all stay alert and be careful.

Author: slickmaster | © 2011 september twenty-eight productions