Senator Robin Padilla has defended himself after facing online criticism for reposting a widely debunked privacy hoax related to Meta Platforms on his Facebook page, which quickly gained traction and trended online.
The incident drew reactions from netizens who questioned the senator’s fact-checking practices, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with his large social media following and influence.
In response, Padilla clarified that his intention was not to mislead the public, but to highlight the importance of protecting personal information online.
“Ang pagbibigay ng proteksyon sa pribadong mga impormasyon ng taongbayan ay ang unang una sa lahat na ating ipinapanukala at ipinaglalaban sapagkat ito ang pinagmumulan ngayon ng pang-aabuso sa hindi lamang sa mga matatanda kundi sa mga bata lalo,” he said.
The senator also acknowledged that he himself had been misled by the circulating post.
“Ako ay isa na sa mga yun kaninang umaga. Akoy nasabik sa nabasa sa isang post ang patungkol sa paano maproteksyonan ang mga sarili sa Facebook.”
Padilla explained that he shared the content “in good faith,” believing it could serve as a reminder for users to remain cautious about their online privacy, regardless of its accuracy.
“Kaya ko ito nirepost dahil sa aking nabasa ay maging makatotohanan man ito o hindi, malinaw na wala itong masasaktan na tao kundi pang-mulat na rin sa kung paano maproteksyonan ang sarili,” he added.
He further stressed that the post was not intended as a political statement or attack, but rather as an effort to spark awareness on digital safety.
Padilla also expressed appreciation to friends who pointed out the issue, as well as to supporters who stood by him amid the backlash.