MANILA — Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla has directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct a thorough probe into the individuals behind the spread of fake news alleging that he was rushed to the hospital.

In a press conference on Thursday, Remulla denounced the false reports as malicious disinformation, stressing that the matter has already reached the threshold of cyber libel. 

“Pinapaimbestigahan ko ‘yan. I’m asking the [National Bureau of Investigation] to look into these allegations… Sometimes, you really have to extract justice from people. Hindi mo talaga pwedeng pabayaan na lang kasi pattern ‘to... Kung ginagawa nila ‘to ngayon, gagawin pa nila lalo ‘yan kapag hindi ‘yan nasawata,” he said.

Remulla added, “Kasi we’ve reached the limit of cyberlibel already. Tingnan natin kung saan pupunta.”

The Ombudsman emphasized that the spread of fabricated reports about his health is part of a broader pattern of disinformation campaigns targeting public officials. He warned that if left unchecked, such actions could embolden perpetrators to continue spreading falsehoods.

The fake news posts, which circulated widely on social media earlier this month, falsely claimed that Remulla was “unwell” and had been hospitalized. Some posts even used edited or AI‑generated images to mislead the public. His family and colleagues quickly debunked the rumors, with Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla clarifying that his brother was in good health and had just finished playing golf.

Remulla, who previously underwent quintuple bypass surgery and a bone marrow transplant in 2023, assured the public that he remains active in his duties as Ombudsman. He said the investigation aims to hold accountable those responsible for spreading malicious claims and to deter future disinformation campaigns.

As the NBI begins its investigation, Remulla’s firm stance underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the spread of fake news, particularly when it involves public officials and undermines public trust.

Fighting Fake News Without Becoming It

Disinformation is real. It damages trust and spreads fast. Calling it out matters. But how the state responds matters just as much.

When powerful officials move quickly to criminal probes, credibility becomes the real test. Transparency should lead. Clear facts, timely clarification, and open communication stop rumors better than fear ever will. Heavy-handed responses risk turning a fight for truth into a display of power.

Cyberlibel exists for a reason, but restraint gives it legitimacy. When enforcement feels selective or excessive, it fuels suspicion instead of trust. Public confidence grows when truth is proven, not when silence is threatened.

The goal should be to defeat falsehoods, not amplify them through intimidation.

Can the government fight fake news firmly while proving it does not become the very thing it condemns?

Image from Boying Remulla Facebook