MALACAÑANG sees no urgent need to involve military intelligence in the government’s response to recent kidnapping incidents, saying the situation remains under control and does not reflect a widespread security threat.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro made the statement Monday amid calls for President Marcos to mobilize military intelligence in light of the recent cases of abductions.
“At this point, there is no truth to claims of a widespread kidnapping spree in the country. That’s fake news,” Castro said in a Palace briefing.
“In line with what PNP (Philippine National Police) chief (Gen. Rommel) Marbil has said, these are isolated, calculated acts rooted in personal and financial vendettas. The situation is firmly under control,” Castro said.
She stressed that current law enforcement strategies are working and that criminal networks are actively being dismantled. Whether or not to involve military intelligence will depend on further assessment and the evolving strategy of the PNP, she added.
The issue came into focus following the arrest of three suspects in the kidnapping and killing of Filipino-Chinese businessman Anson Que and his driver, Armanie Pabillo.
One of the suspects is a Chinese national linked outlawed Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) sector. All suspects face charges of kidnapping for ransom with homicide.
Castro said the swift resolution of the Que case was due to the direct orders of President Marcos and the quick action of the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group. The victim’s family has expressed gratitude to the President and law enforcement for their commitment to justice.
In the same briefing, Castro also voiced strong support for the PNP’s newly formed Joint Anti-Fake News Action Committee, emphasizing the threat of disinformation, especially in cases involving national security.
“There are still fake news peddlers claiming that the suspects are merely fall guys. That is dangerous,” she said.
“Fake news distorts public perception and decision-making. That’s why we must work together — government, media, and responsible content creators — to stop its spread,” she added.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Palace: No need to tap military as kidnapping cases under control.”