Malacañang Press Corps refutes Marcos ‘health cover-up’ allegations

By Nash Villena, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
April 12, 2026

(Photo courtesy: Malacañang Press Corps)

MANILA, Philippines — The Malacañang Press Corps (MPC) on Sunday issued a stinging rebuke against circulating allegations of biased reporting and bribery, firmly denying claims that its members are involved in a supposed cover-up regarding President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s state of health.

In a statement, the MPC dismissed the “malicious” rumors, asserting that the group has never allowed itself—and will never allow itself—to be used by the Palace to conceal information of public interest.

The corps pointed to its track record of transparency, citing previous press releases, transcripts, and briefings where members directly questioned the Palace regarding the President’s well-being.

“The news we release has a clear basis—reports gathered by questioning those involved or from what we have personally witnessed,” the MPC said in Filipino. “We also verify any information we gather to ensure it is correct and true before sharing it with the public.”

The group also took a swipe at the source of the attacks, noting that the rigorous verification process is what separates professional journalists from “content creators with questionable agendas” aiming to discredit the media.

The MPC emphasized that despite the coordinated attacks, it will remain steadfast in its duty, upholding journalistic integrity and the highest standard of truthful reporting.

“Amidst the smears, we will continue to ask questions, continue to observe, and continue to report fairly on the policies of the President… We will always side with the truth and stand for the interest of the nation, regardless of who sits in Malacañang.”

The MPC’s statement follows a similar denial from the Malacañang Cameramen Association (MCA). The MCA recently rejected conspiracy theories claiming they aired “throwback” or old footage of the President during the 84th anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan at Mt. Samat, Bataan, last Thursday.