Former Health secretary and Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin dismissed claims that saliva and a runny nose are scientific indicators of lying, urging the public to focus on the issues raised during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte instead of personal attacks.
Speaking during a press conference, Garin said she was surprised that public discussion had shifted to saliva following the circulation of memes related to the impeachment proceedings.
She questioned why the conversation had turned to what she described as a low level of discourse, noting that every person naturally has saliva.
Garin also addressed claims circulating online that saliva and a runny nose are scientifically recognized signs of dishonesty.
She rejected the assertion, saying it was false and had no basis in medical science.
According to Garin, there has never been a time in the history of the medical community when a runny nose has been identified as a symptom caused by lying.
She added that such claims are an insult to medical professionals because they falsely attribute scientific meaning to normal bodily functions.
The lawmaker appealed to the public not to divert attention from the impeachment proceedings through personal attacks or unrelated discussions.
Instead, Garin said public attention should remain on the trial itself, including the arguments presented by the lawyers and prosecutors, and whether they are effectively carrying out their responsibilities during the proceedings.
The comments came after memes involving saliva and runny noses spread on social media following developments in the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Garin maintained that discussions surrounding the proceedings should remain focused on the issues presented during the trial rather than on claims that have no scientific basis.
