Marcos labels Duterte's claim of election-blocking scheme as fake news

Vice President Sara Duterte rejected recent accusations that she accepted suitcases of money from former policeman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr., and accused the administration of trying to sabotage the 2028 elections. In response, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., relayed by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, branded Duterte's remarks as fake news, nonsense and a lie. Duterte characterized the allegation as a media stunt intended to revive a faltering impeachment effort and portrayed the government as increasingly desperate.

Castro also urged Duterte to address the accusations with evidence rather than logical fallacies, suggesting she learn the definitions of red herring and ad hominem. The National Bureau of Investigation has begun investigating Gracioso's claims, which also implicate former President Rodrigo Duterte, Representative Paolo Duterte and former Speaker Lord Allan Velasco. The dispute adds another layer to the political tension ahead of the upcoming election cycle.