President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s son, Sandro Marcos, condemned Senator Imee Marcos’ public accusation that the President is addicted to drugs, calling the claim false and harmful. The statement marked the first time Sandro addressed the issue, saying he would speak only once out of respect for his aunt, whom he credited for helping him early in public life.
Sandro said it was painful to see Senator Marcos “resort to lies” that he believes aim to destabilize the government for political gain. He denied all allegations involving the President, the First Lady, and himself. He added that cousins Borgy, Ilocos Norte Vice Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc, and Atty. Michael Marcos Keon could confirm the accusations are untrue.
He said the family had agreed not to let past conflicts between their parents affect their own relationships. He expressed disappointment that private matters were being made public, urging Filipinos to focus on facts instead of narratives that cause division.
The controversy erupted after Senator Marcos spoke at an Iglesia ni Cristo rally at the Quirino Grandstand on November 17. Addressing thousands of INC members protesting corruption, she accused her brother of drug addiction and urged him to step back from his duties to seek medical treatment. She recalled believing marriage would stabilize his life but claimed his supposed dependence on drugs worsened over time.
Her statements revived earlier accusations by former president Rodrigo Duterte, who had repeatedly called Marcos a drug user. Marcos dismissed those claims then, suggesting Duterte’s long-term fentanyl use may have influenced his remarks.
The Presidential Communications Office rejected Senator Marcos’ claims, calling them baseless.
