Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro revealed that she has received information alleging that foreign entities are paying trolls to undermine the Philippines’ national interest.
“May balita, may nagbabayad na ibang bansa para bayaran itong mga trolls. At itong mga trolls para sirain ‘yung interes natin. So ‘yun ‘yung mahirap. Meron tayong mga kababayan na nabibili tapos binebenta ‘yung sariling integridad ng bansa natin,” saad ni Castro.
Castro made the statement during the first episode of the podcast hosted by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Jay Tarriela.
She stressed that the West Philippine Sea issue should be a “unifying” concern for Filipinos, but claimed that certain forces are sowing division in public opinion.
Citing a study by Nikko Balbedina, Castro pointed to alleged “Chinese-linked networks” that are “bringing down the President and the government, especially in relation to the West Philippine Sea issue, while promoting a so-called ‘Manchurian candidate.’”
The Palace’s warning underscores growing concerns over disinformation campaigns and their impact on national unity, particularly on sensitive issues such as the West Philippine Sea.