Listen to the article
In a surprising turn of political controversy, allegations that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was rushed to hospital due to a drug overdose have been debunked as false by fact-checkers, highlighting the persistent spread of misinformation targeting the Philippine leader.
The claims emerged from a YouTube video posted on December 5 by the channel “BOSES NG MASA,” which has approximately 119,000 subscribers. The video featured manipulated imagery showing Marcos in a hospital gown with tubes attached to his nose, alongside Vice President Sara Duterte. Superimposed text dramatically claimed: “Breaking news! Was [President Bongbong Marcos] rushed to the hospital?! Palace raided and drugs found?”
Further into the video, on-screen text escalated the allegations: “President Bongbong Marcos rushed to the hospital after overdosing on illegal drugs! Malacañang is in turmoil.” The narrator described an alleged medical emergency while simultaneously undermining the claim by suggesting multiple “versions” of events existed, before speculating that Vice President Duterte might assume presidential duties.
Fact-checking efforts have confirmed that Malacañang Palace has issued no statements regarding any hospitalization of the President. No credible news organizations have reported such an incident, and the Presidential Communications Office continues to document Marcos’ active engagement in his official duties.
During the period when the video claimed Marcos was hospitalized, the President remained visible in his role, releasing a video message about the ongoing flood control scandal investigation. He also signed an executive order updating the base pay schedule and increasing subsistence allowances for military and uniformed personnel, and issued a statement for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8.
The unfounded allegations come amid heightened political tensions in the Philippines. Senator Imee Marcos, the President’s sister, recently made public statements during an Iglesia ni Cristo peace rally, accusing her brother and the First Family of illegal drug use. These comments surfaced alongside allegations from former Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co, who named Marcos as one of the alleged masterminds behind the insertion of ₱100 billion worth of projects in the 2025 budget—claims that Malacañang has firmly denied.
This isn’t the first time Marcos has faced drug-related accusations. Former president Rodrigo Duterte repeatedly labeled him a “drug addict” and claimed Marcos appeared on the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency’s (PDEA) list of drug personalities. However, PDEA has stated that Marcos has never appeared in its National Drug Information System or any government narco list.
The recent video appears to be part of a pattern of sensationalized content targeting the President. Fact-checkers have previously debunked similar false claims, including allegations about Marcos’ supposed resignation and Vice President Duterte allegedly replacing him.
Digital forensic analysts have also flagged other content attempting to link the President to drug use, including a widely circulated “polvoron video” that experts believe was manipulated, possibly using “faceswap” technology.
The ongoing circulation of such unverified claims underscores the challenges facing Philippine politics in the digital age, where misinformation can rapidly spread through social media channels. As of this report, the false video claiming Marcos’ hospitalization had gained over 3,400 views, 89 likes, and 29 comments.
The persistence of these debunked claims highlights the importance of media literacy and fact-checking in navigating the increasingly complex landscape of political information and misinformation in the Philippines.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
14 Comments
It’s good to see the government taking proactive steps to refute this rumor. In an era of widespread misinformation, it’s crucial that political leaders and officials remain vigilant in addressing unsubstantiated claims in a timely and transparent manner.
While I’m relieved to hear the president was not hospitalized, this episode highlights the need for greater transparency from government officials. Timely and accurate communication is crucial to prevent the spread of harmful rumors and speculation.
While I’m relieved to hear the president was not hospitalized, this incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in government. Spreading unsubstantiated claims, even in the form of speculation, erodes public trust.
You make a fair point. Transparency should be a priority, as unfounded rumors can quickly spiral out of control and distract from the real issues facing the country. Responsible reporting and fact-checking are essential.
It’s good to see the officials promptly address this rumor. In an age of rampant misinformation, it’s crucial that the public has access to reliable, fact-based information about their political leaders. Spreading unverified claims can have serious consequences.
While I’m relieved to hear the president was not hospitalized, this incident underscores the need for stronger safeguards against the spread of misinformation. Fact-checking and responsible reporting should be the cornerstones of a well-functioning democracy.
Exactly. Combating the proliferation of false narratives requires a multi-pronged approach, including public education, media literacy initiatives, and a robust fact-checking ecosystem. It’s a shared responsibility to maintain a well-informed citizenry.
This is a concerning situation, but I’m glad the officials were quick to address the claims and provide clarity. Misinformation can have serious consequences, so it’s important that the public has access to reliable, fact-based information about their leaders.
I agree. Maintaining trust in political institutions requires a commitment to transparency and accountability. Fact-checking efforts are essential to combat the proliferation of false narratives and ensure the public is well-informed.
This just underscores the importance of having robust fact-checking mechanisms in place to counter the proliferation of false narratives, especially around sensitive political topics. I hope this incident serves as a wake-up call for strengthening information integrity.
Absolutely. Misinformation thrives in the absence of credible sources and robust fact-checking. Maintaining a well-informed citizenry is essential for the healthy functioning of any democracy.
This is a concerning development, but I’m glad to see the officials swiftly address the claims and provide clarity. Misinformation can have serious consequences, so it’s important that the public has access to reliable, fact-based information about their political leaders.
This is a concerning claim, but I’m glad the officials were quick to refute it. Spreading misinformation about political leaders’ health is irresponsible and can sow unnecessary division. I hope the public will rely on credible sources going forward.
Agreed. Fact-checking is crucial to counter the persistent spread of misinformation, especially around high-profile political figures. It’s important we maintain a healthy skepticism and focus on verified information.