Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation Secretary Larry Gadon has urged the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to file cases against individuals allegedly spreading false information about the health of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
The call followed the circulation of social media claims alleging that the President was suffering from an illness. The allegations were earlier denied.
In an interview with Brigada NewsFM Manila, Gadon said he personally saw the President in good condition during the Araw ng Kagitingan event held on April 9.
He said the President’s appearance during the livestream of the event showed that Marcos appeared healthy.
Gadon also recounted that when he was able to speak with the President, Marcos advised him to take care of his heart and avoid being constantly angry.
According to Gadon, he has been coordinating with the CIDG to encourage authorities to gather evidence against those allegedly behind what he described as an “orchestrated” spread of fake news.
He said such statements can confuse the public and may affect trust in the government.
Gadon also claimed that only a small number of people believe the circulating information, adding that some individuals may be spreading the claims in exchange for payment.
Authorities have yet to release further details on possible legal actions related to the alleged spread of misinformation about the President’s health.
