Statement of Malacañang on Fake News
Malacañang reacted to the spread of fake news over the health of President Bongbong Marcos after he was recently hospitalized.
Amid so much things currently unfolding in the Philippines government, the Malacañang Palace previously emphasized that Marcos Jr. remains committed to his duties. However, his previous sudden absence from an important event has raised questions about the possible reasons behind it.
Last January 22, Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was scheduled to attend the awarding ceremony of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM), an event that celebrates Filipinos who lead the fight against major national challenges such as climate change, cultural preservation, and sustainable growth.
This year’s TOYM had the theme “Excellence in Action: Building a Better Tomorrow”. In place of the President, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto represented him at the said ceremony.
Amid the speculations, Undersecretary Claire Castro, Malacañang’s press officer, reported that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remained under medical observation overnight. The Palace official explained that the move was taken purely as a precaution after the President experienced some discomfort was brought to the hospital.
Castro emphasized that Marcos Jr. remained active in fulfilling his duties even while undergoing medical observation. The hospitalization of the President was followed by several speculations and even fake news.
An alleged “medical report” of Pres. Bongbong Marcos even circulated online and Malacañang dismissed it. The management of St Luke’s Medical Center where Marcos Jr. was observed overnight also released a statement to clarify the rumors.
Marcos Jr. claimed that he was diagnosed with diverticulitis, an inflammation of the large intestine. The President associated his condition with stress and aging. Meanwhile, he assured the public that he is feeling better.
Recently, social media personality Jack Argota appeared before the National Bureau of Investigation to explain his alleged sharing of the fake medical report of Pres. Bongbong Marcos. Based on a report on ABS-CBN News, he claimed that he allegedly only did it to keep up with the trend.
“May mali ako. Humingi ako ng pasensya,” the social media personality said.
Based on the report, Malacañang press officer Undersecretary Claire Castro stressed that such thing should not be treated as a joke. According to her, it does not only affect the person who is the subject of the fake news but as well as the Filipino people who gets to see it.
“So, nilalabanan po natin ang fake news, at hindi po dapat ito gagawin at pagkasabi ng sorry ay tapos na,” Castro said.
The Malacañang official said that the investigation is up to the NBI. According to her, if Jack Argota has not committed any mistake, he should defend himself.
Previously, the Palace addressed a photo asking if Pres. Bongbong Marcos has colon cancer.
