House Speaker Martin Romualdez dismissed as fake news the rumors circulating online that he suffered a stroke and was hospitalized.
In a statement on Sunday, Romualdez called on Filipinos to reject such disinformation and focus on unity and positivity, especially during the Christmas season. “Be careful of fake news,” he said.
The Speaker assured the public that he remains in excellent health and fully engaged in his responsibilities as leader of the House of Representatives. He said he was recently busy delivering Christmas messages among other activities.
“Later on, I would watch a movie, together with my family. Last Friday, I was with the governors, and we had a dinner,” Romualdez said further, disclosing his whereabouts. He described the rumors as ironic, noting he had a restful night before the fake news circulated.
“Yesterday (Saturday), I had a good sleep. I did not have an early appointment. That’s why I had a good sleep. I am very refreshed. Now, I’m feeling very, very strong and very energetic, especially today (Sunday),” he added.
The veteran lawmaker from Leyte urged everyone to avoid spreading disinformation and instead focus on unity and positivity during the holidays. “Let us hope no one would ever spread fake news. Let’s just all work together. Let us just be positive this Christmas,” he said.
When asked about the possible source of the rumors, Romualdez said they could possibly come from his detractors, especially amid the ongoing hearings in the House of Representatives. “Of course, there would be critics. That is part of the job. But still, let us avoid spreading fake news,” he noted.
The Office of the Speaker earlier denounced the rumors as a calculated attempt to undermine public trust in the country’s leaders.
“These allegations are completely untrue and are clearly designed to mislead the public and sow confusion,” said Lemuel Erwin Romero, head executive assistant of the Speaker.
He said the recent public engagements of the Speaker included his presence in Malacañang on Dec. 5 and 6, where President Ferdinand Marcos met lawmakers for a Christmas fellowship and signed two new laws, respectively.
Romero urged everyone to rely only on verified and credible sources of information, warning that disinformation erodes trust in institutions and harms the nation.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “FACT CHECK | Romualdez in ‘excellent health,’ belies rumors he suffered stroke”