Malacañang on Monday rejected Senator Imee Marcos’ remarks about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s health, branding them as “fake news” and cautioning the public against disinformation being spread amid reported strains within the First Family.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the senator’s assertions were baseless, stressing that she has not been in contact with the President for some time.
“Hindi sila nagkikita so anong alam niya? Fake news ‘yan,” Castro said.
The Palace urged Filipinos to disregard online speculation and instead rely on verified updates and the President’s public appearances.
“Huwag ninyo nang intindihin ‘yung fake news… tingnan ninyo mismo ang Pangulo,” Castro said, noting that the President continues to attend public engagements.
Castro also criticized those spreading unverified claims, describing disinformation peddlers in blunt terms.
“Hindi po natin sila kailangan… salot sila,” she added.
The controversy erupted after Senator Marcos posted a video alleging she had known of her brother’s supposed illness since late 2025, while calling for greater transparency from the administration.
Malacañang has consistently denied such allegations. The President himself previously brushed off rumors, saying he has resumed and maintained his regular routine for months.
Meanwhile, the Presidential Communications Office said it is gathering evidence to file cases against individuals it identified as part of coordinated disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining or casting doubt on the President’s health.