“Bakit natin paniniwalaan ang isang fake news peddler?”

This was the firm statement made by Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro against former Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque, who claimed that the reported arrest of former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co was not true, labelling it as "fake news."

This came after Roque alleged that Co, a former lawmaker, had not actually been apprehended or detained in the Czech Republic.

During a press briefing on Tuesday, April 21, Castro questioned Roque’s credibility after he alleged that Co was neither apprehended nor detained in the Czech Republic. And also called the former spokesperson a "fake news peddler."

“Bakit natin paniniwalaan ang isang fake news peddler?” she said.

Castro noted that both President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Fredderick Vida had already addressed the situation, stressing that official government pronouncements should be relied upon instead.

She added that updates on Co’s case, which is linked to an alleged flood control scandal, would be provided by Vida.

Earlier, the DOJ denied circulating claims that Co has not been arrested, confirming that he is currently under the custody of authorities in the Czech Republic.

When asked why authorities have yet to release photos or videos of Co’s reported arrest, Castro said the government is being “careful” due to the involvement of other countries.

“Kasi mayroon pong ibang country na involved, so maingat po ang gobyerno sa pagbibigay ng anumang anunsyo. Hayaan na lamang po natin na magtrabaho ang ating gobyerno,” she said.

Castro also urged relevant agencies to look into individuals spreading false information, emphasizing the need to curb the spread of misinformation.

She added that the government would ensure Co's safety as developments in the case continue.