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In a firm rebuke of viral claims, Malacañang officials have repeatedly dismissed speculation about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s health status, countering false rumors that have recently spread across social media platforms.
The unfounded allegations, which claimed President Marcos was hospitalized in critical condition due to illegal drug use, gained traction from a YouTube video posted on May 5 that has amassed over 30,300 views. The video’s sensationalist thumbnail declared: “Critical due to drugs? Confirmed taken to hospital. Hair follicle drug test, Supreme Court rushing now.”
These assertions have been categorically labeled false by presidential spokespersons. The President himself addressed the rumors during an April 13 press briefing, personally assuring the public about his good health.
Evidence of Marcos’ active schedule directly contradicts the claims about his alleged critical condition. On May 6, the President led a situation briefing on Mayon Volcano’s ongoing unrest, where he ordered immediate aid distribution to affected Albay residents. He has also maintained a visible presence at several Metro Manila events, including the launch of “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang,” a social program providing rice assistance to vulnerable households.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro previously stated there was no basis for releasing a medical bulletin regarding the President’s health, noting that a sitting president cannot be compelled to disclose medical records without substantiated claims.
While the Palace did confirm a hospitalization incident in January when Marcos was diagnosed with diverticulitis—a condition the President described as common among those who are “heavily stressed”—officials emphasized this was not a life-threatening situation.
The recent claims appear to be part of a pattern of unverified health rumors that have circulated throughout Marcos’ presidency. The YouTube channel behind the most recent viral video, “Jay Guevarra TV,” has over 504,000 followers and consistently posts content critical of Marcos while favoring former President Rodrigo Duterte.
The allegations about illegal drug use have a particularly complex history. In November 2025, the President’s sister, Senator Imee Marcos, made public accusations that her brother, along with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and her nephews, suffered from drug addiction. During an Iglesia ni Cristo rally in Manila, she urged the President to “come home” and seek treatment, saying, “I can bear it if you fail and lose your position, but I cannot bear to lose you. Take care of yourself. Get treatment. Rid your system of drugs.”
Former President Rodrigo Duterte made similar accusations against Marcos in 2024.
Political analysts note that such claims often emerge during periods of heightened political tension in the Philippines, where social media has become a battleground for competing political factions. The rapid spread of these unverified health rumors highlights the challenges facing the administration in managing public perception and combating misinformation.
Media monitoring organization Rappler has previously fact-checked and debunked similar claims regarding Marcos’ health and alleged drug use, identifying them as part of ongoing disinformation campaigns targeting the administration.
As the false claims continue to circulate, communications experts emphasize the importance of critical media literacy among the Philippine public, especially as the country navigates complex political rivalries played out increasingly through social media channels.
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12 Comments
It’s reassuring to see the government swiftly dispelling these rumors. Maintaining accurate information is crucial, especially regarding public officials’ health and wellbeing.
Absolutely. Fact-checking and evidence-based reporting are essential to uphold the truth.
Glad to see the President maintaining an active public schedule, which contradicts the false claims. Disinformation is a real problem, so fact-checking is important to combat it.
Absolutely. The government seems to be taking this seriously and setting the record straight.
The President’s visible presence and active schedule are encouraging signs that these rumors are unfounded. Transparency from the government is important to maintain public trust.
I agree. Addressing misinformation directly helps to counter the spread of false narratives.
This serves as a good reminder to be skeptical of unsubstantiated claims, especially those circulating on social media. It’s crucial to rely on official sources and fact-based reporting.
Well said. Verifying information before sharing is the responsible thing to do.
These unfounded claims about the President’s health are concerning, but I’m glad to see the government taking steps to address them. Transparency and accountability are vital in a democracy.
I agree. The President’s active schedule and the government’s response suggest these rumors are unfounded.
Interesting to see the government swiftly dismiss these unfounded rumors about the President’s health. Transparency and accountability are crucial, so it’s good they are addressing the claims directly.
I agree. Speculation and misinformation can be damaging, so it’s reassuring to see the President himself address the issue.