Palace Tells Roque: ‘Go Home’ After Marcos Allegations
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APRIL 22,2025
MANILA, Philippines — April 22, 2025 — The Office of the President has urged former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque to return to the Philippines, calling him a “fake news peddler” for linking President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to illegal drug use.
In a press briefing on Monday, April 21, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro criticized Roque for accusing Senator Imee Marcos, the President’s sister, of knowing about the alleged drug use.
“Si Atty. Harry Roque ay lumalabas na ngayon bilang isang fake news peddler (Atty. Harry Roque is now emerging as a fake news peddler),” said Castro.
Malacañang Palace: No Evidence, Just Accusations
Castro pointed to Roque’s earlier involvement in spreading the so-called “polvoron video,” a clip claiming to show Marcos using cocaine. She stressed that Roque had not shown any credible proof.
“Wala pa siyang napapatunayan at wala siyang ebidensya (He hasn’t proven anything and has no evidence),” she said.
“Kung mayroon siyang ebidensya, hindi niya kakailanganin ng tulong (If he had evidence, he wouldn’t need help to support these claims).”
When asked for a message to Roque, Castro said simply: “Go home.”
Roque is currently in the Netherlands, where he is seeking asylum. He cited safety concerns after criticizing the administration.
No Immediate Legal Action vs. Roque, Maharlika
Castro clarified that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has not yet filed charges against Roque or vlogger Maharlika, who was also linked to the spread of the video. She said authorities are still reviewing the case.
“Binibigyan po natin ang bawat respondent ng due process (We give every respondent due process),” Castro said.
The Palace confirmed it has no plans to request Interpol assistance at this time.
Disinformation and Politics in the Philippines
This issue highlights the growing impact of fake news and misinformation in Philippine politics. The Marcos administration has denied all drug-related claims, calling them politically motivated.
Roque, once a loyal supporter of former President Rodrigo Duterte and later of President Marcos, has recently shifted his stance. His actions have sparked public criticism and raised questions about his intentions.
The Malacañang Palace reminded the public to fact-check and avoid sharing unverified information.
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