Palace wants 'immediate action' vs fresh allegations on Marcos, first lady

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang condemned the latest allegations against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, saying that "immediate action is necessary" to address these false claims. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro issued the statement after vlogger Deen Chase accused the President and the first lady of using illegal drugs and publicized an explicit photo purportedly of Araneta-Marcos. "Rumors concerning President Marcos Jr. and FL Liza are being spread to harm their character and integrity," Castro said in a statement. "In the absence of evidence, anyone may spread falsehoods to promote a politician or to troll for a fee," she added. Castro commended those who expressed concern over the consequences of disinformation, saying that its proliferation also affected the country's tourism and economy. "Immediate action is necessary to address these falsehoods, which will affect not only victims of fake news, but also our tourism and economy," she said.