The Malacañang Press Corps (MPC) on Sunday, April 12, strongly denied allegations that its members were being used or paid to cover up the true health condition of President Marcos, calling such claims baseless and misleading.

In a statement, the MPC said it “firmly rejects” accusations that it has compromised its independence or integrity in reporting on the President.

It stressed that its members have consistently asked government officials about the President’s health in press briefings.

“Malinaw sa mga nakaraang ulat at mga video ng mga press briefing kung paanong inusisa ng aming mga kasapi ang mga opisyal ng pamahalaan (It is clear in past reports and briefing videos how our members questioned government officials),” the group said.

The group said its news reports are based on information gathered through official sources and firsthand observation.

“Amin ding bineberipika ang anumang impormasyon… bago namin ibahagi sa publiko (We verify all information before sharing it with the public),” it said.

The MPC maintained that its members adhere to professional standards of journalism.

The MPC condemned what it described as “blatant attempts” to discredit journalists and mislead the public.

“Kinokondena rin namin ang garapal na mga pagtatangkang sirain ang kredibilidad ng mga mamamahayag (We condemn blatant attempts to destroy the credibility of journalists),” it said.

It warned that such narratives are being pushed to advance certain interests.

The group also took aim at social media content creators spreading unverified claims.

“Hindi ito ginagawa ng mga content creator na ang tanging puhunan ay… malikot na imahinasyon at kwestyonableng agenda (This is not how content creators operate, relying only on imagination and questionable agendas),” it said.

The MPC stressed that responsible journalism is rooted in verification and accountability.

The group added that spreading baseless accusations and fabricated stories is not the work of professional journalists.

“Madaling magbintang… madaling magkalat ng mga walang basehang tsismis (It is easy to accuse… easy to spread baseless rumors),” it said.

It emphasized that its members remain committed to factual reporting.

The MPC urged the public to be more critical of information circulating on social media.

“Hinihimok namin ang lahat na maging mapanuri… at kilatisin ang pinanggagalingan ng impormasyon (We urge everyone to be discerning and examine sources of information),” it said.

Despite the attacks, the MPC said it will continue to ask questions and report fairly on the actions and policies of the President.

“Patuloy kaming magtatanong… at mag-uulat ng patas (We will continue to ask questions and report fairly),” it said.

The MPC underscored that it will remain committed to truth and public interest regardless of who sits in Malacañang.