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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Romualdez condemns fake news on Pope Francis' death

Romualdez condemns fake news on Pope Francis' death

Published Feb 25, 2025 06:33 am

At A Glance

  • House Speaker Martin Romualdez joined on Tuesday, Feb. 25 those who denounced the spread of fake news claiming that Vatican leader Pope Francis had passed away.

IMG-a3ea482b22d53a0b310e0231f317a046-V.jpgHouse Speaker Martin Romualdez (PPAB)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

House Speaker Martin Romualdez joined on Tuesday, Feb. 25 those who denounced the spread of fake news claiming that Vatican leader Pope Francis had passed away.

“This is a troubling reminder of how ruthless and irresponsible fake news has become. Spreading false information about the Holy Father not only causes unnecessary alarm but also undermines the truth at a time when facts matter more than ever,” Romualdez said in a statement. 

A viral post falsely claimed that Pope Francis had died at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Hospital. The report triggered widespread reactions before the Vatican swiftly dismissed it as a hoax.

 

Romualdez urged the public to verify information before sharing it. He says digital responsibility is crucial in preventing misinformation from taking root.

“Social media must not be a tool for deception,” the leader of the 306-member House of Representatives pointed out.

“We all have a duty to be responsible with the information we consume and share. Misinformation can erode trust, create confusion, and cause distress, especially when it involves a leader as deeply respected as Pope Francis,” stressed the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) president. 

The House chief also encouraged the faithful to offer prayers for the Pope’s health instead of engaging in the spread of falsehoods.

“Rather than spreading baseless rumors, let us turn our energy toward prayer and goodwill. Pope Francis inspires millions with his wisdom and compassion, and we pray for his continued strength and good health,” he said.

Romualdez also called on digital platforms to strengthen their fight against disinformation, urging stricter measures to curb the spread of fake news.

“This is a serious issue that demands action. We must work together—governments, media organizations, and tech platforms—to ensure that truth prevails over deception,” the Speaker said.

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Martin Romualdez Fake News Pope Francis
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