Metro Manila, Philippines – Malacañang on Wednesday, Feb. 25, countered allegations by a lawyer and anti-corruption advocate that President Bongbong Marcos ordered the delivery of ₱805 billion in flood control project funds to politicians.
“Paulit-ulit na kasinungalingan laban sa pangulo — lousy script, hindi pang-award winning, hindi malinis. Alam mo na may kasinungalingan,” said Castro, referring to the expose of Levito Baligod.
[Translation: It’s the same lies against the president over and over again. It’s a lousy script, not award-winning and poorly executed. You can tell that it’s a lie.]
Castro said in a press briefing that the Palace is aware of those responsible for circulating information.
“Dapat ninyo sigurong malaman kung sino talaga. Alamin ninyo muna at baka kayo. I believe, hindi kayo magugulat. Same people,” she added.
[Translation: You should probably find out who it really is. Look into it first. I believe you won’t be surprised. It’s the same people.]
Castro then called on law enforcement agencies to act against those who spread “fake news,” saying there is no need to remind them of their duty as it is part of their obligation.
“Nandiyan ang NBI, nandiyan ang PNP, dapat malaman nila ito. Obligasyon nila na kasuhan ang mga nagpapakalat ng fake news. Dapat pa ba silang utusan? Hindi po.”
[Translation: The National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police are there, they should know about this. It is their obligation to file cases against those who spread fake news. Do they still need to be ordered? No.]
Levito also presented a number of former military personnel who linked politicians and personalities to flood control scam proceeds from fugitive ex-lawmaker Zaldy Co. The politicians and the military denied the accusations.
