Marcoleta Denies Claims of Replacing Marcos as President

In a political landscape rife with online misinformation, claims that Senator Rodante Marcoleta would replace President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as the Philippines’ head of state have been categorically debunked as false.

The unfounded rumor gained traction after a YouTube video posted on November 26 by a channel called “NEWS UPDATE FILES” declared: “Good news! Confirmed! Marcoleta, New President? Marcos Jr., papalitan na (to be replaced)?” The video’s thumbnail reinforced this narrative, showing a manipulated image of Marcoleta holding up a document beside what appeared to be a shocked President Marcos.

Despite attracting over 26,000 views, 2,700 likes, and numerous comments, the video offers no credible evidence supporting its sensational claim. In reality, the footage merely shows political commentator Banat By reacting to Zaldy Co’s allegations regarding budget insertions, with no information about any presidential transition.

Official sources confirm President Marcos remains firmly in office. The Presidential Communications Office continues to issue press releases documenting the president’s activities and engagements, while Marcoleta maintains his position in the Senate.

The Philippine Constitution clearly outlines the presidential succession protocol. In the event the presidency becomes vacant, the vice president assumes office. Should both positions be unoccupied, the Senate president would step in, followed by the House speaker. The claim that Marcoleta could directly replace Marcos contradicts these established constitutional procedures.

Further investigation reveals the thumbnail image was manipulated using a photograph taken during Marcoleta’s filing of candidacy in October 2024, deceptively repurposed to suggest a presidential transition.

Political analysts note this is not an isolated incident. The Philippines has seen a surge in politically motivated misinformation, particularly on social media platforms where sensationalist content can rapidly spread. The video employs classic clickbait tactics—using dramatic language, misleading imagery, and false promises of “breaking news” to drive engagement metrics.

The false claim emerges against a backdrop of political turbulence in the Philippines. Marcos has faced corruption allegations regarding a bicameral insertion scheme and unsubstantiated claims about drug use. These controversies have fueled calls for his resignation from opposition figures and some segments of the public.

Despite mounting pressure, President Marcos has categorically rejected calls to step down. His administration continues to function, though political observers note these persistent rumors reflect growing political tensions in the country.

Media literacy experts emphasize that such fabricated political content represents a significant challenge to Philippine democracy, potentially misleading voters and undermining trust in legitimate institutions. They recommend citizens verify information through official government channels and credible news organizations before accepting or sharing political claims.

The incident highlights the continuing struggle against disinformation in Philippine politics, where social media platforms have become battlegrounds for competing political narratives ahead of future electoral contests.