MANILA, Philippines — February 16, 2026. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has filed criminal complaints against former broadcaster Jay Sonza and vlogger Jeffrey Celiz for allegedly spreading fabricated medical reports about President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. 

The charges were lodged before the Department of Justice after the supposed medical documents circulated widely online, sparking public concern and confusion.

According to the NBI, the falsified report bore the logo of a private hospital and claimed that President Marcos was suffering from “severe sigmoid diverticulitis.” Investigators identified Sonza and Celiz as the primary sources of the document, which quickly gained traction on social media platforms before being debunked.

In its official statement, the bureau said it filed complaints of cyber libel and unlawful use of means of publication. “The NBI has filed complaints of cyber libel and unlawful use of means of publication before the Department of Justice against Jay Sonza and Jeffrey Celiz,” the agency declared.

The Palace earlier dismissed the circulating medical report as fake, emphasizing that President Marcos remains in good health. Press Secretary Claire Castro confirmed that the document was fabricated and urged the public to rely only on official government channels for updates on the President’s condition.

The incident highlights the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital age, particularly when it involves the health of national leaders. Authorities warned that spreading false information not only undermines public trust but also carries serious legal consequences under the country’s cybercrime laws.

As the case moves forward, the Department of Justice is expected to review the complaints and determine the next steps in prosecuting those involved. The NBI reiterated its commitment to pursuing individuals who deliberately spread disinformation, stressing that accountability is crucial in safeguarding the integrity of public discourse.

This development underscores the government’s intensified efforts to combat fake news and protect the public from misleading narratives, especially those that can cause unnecessary alarm about the nation’s highest officials.