SAGIP Rep Marcoleta accuses DOJ spox of not clarifying false traitor posts

During a House tri-committee hearing on fake news proliferation, SAGIP Party-list Rep. Rodante Marcoleta accused the Department of Justice (DOJ) spokesperson and lawyer Armand Fabella of not clarifying false social media posts that called Marcoleta a traitor.

Marcoleta argued it is Fabella's duty to correct these posts since they negatively impact his reputation, emphasizing the need for prompt action against misinformation.

At a separate House hearing on Tuesday about online disinformation, Marcoleta confronted Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela over social media claims that Tarriela had called him a traitor; however, Tarriela denied making such statements.

Tarriela explained he only became aware of the false posts after Marcoleta's February 10 interview and noted his reluctance to defend someone who had insulted him as 'ignorant'.

After their heated exchange, Marcoleta approached Tarriela, they shook hands, and reconciled with each other acknowledging that Tarriela never called him a traitor.

Tarriela emphasized the importance of unity in defending the West Philippine Sea against China's claims, noting it is crucial for President Marcos to uphold this commitment.