Palace: Mabanta apology a lesson against baseless intrigues

Malacañang on Monday stated that the apology issued by Franco Mabanta, founder of Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN), to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos serves as a lesson against baseless intrigues and instigation. During a briefing, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said, “Noise without purpose only victimizes unsuspecting Filipinos. Baseless attacks only keep our fellow citizens misinformed.” Castro emphasized that anyone seeking an investigation should first ensure they have sufficient evidence. “There is no need to drag the family or go through other channels. If you have evidence, file a case immediately,” she added. Last week, Mabanta issued a public apology to Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Vice President Sara Duterte, and former presidential candidate Leni Robredo. In his apology to the Marcoses, Mabanta said, “For any feelings that have been hurt now and in the past, especially, especially towards the First Lady, I am sorry. I mean that sincerely. Good luck, Mr. President. Good luck, my dear old friend.” However, Mabanta continued to criticize former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. When asked about the current relationship between Marcos and Romualdez, Castro stated that she has not personally seen the former House Speaker at Malacañang. “As I said, I do not personally see former Speaker Romualdez here in Malacañang. I do not see them talking to each other,” Castro said. Regarding their current relationship, she added, “As of now, none. I cannot say what their relationship is.” This incident highlights the responsibility in information dissemination within the Philippines and the proper conduct of criticism towards public figures. Especially in the current era where social media allows information to spread instantaneously, the significant impact of unsubstantiated information on society has become apparent.