The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) issued a warning regarding a manipulated audio video of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directing the military to take action against a foreign country. The PCO stated that the video circulating online contains manipulated audio to make it seem like the President gave directives to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which is not true.
This audio manipulation comes at a time of strained relations between the Philippines and China due to China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea. China’s claims in the region have been a point of contention, especially after ignoring an international tribunal ruling in 2016 that declared their claims to have no legal basis.
The PCO urged the public to be cautious about the content they share on social media, especially in light of government efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation. They emphasized the need to be vigilant against manipulated digital content that aims to spread false information and influence agendas.
