FEBRUARY 18, 2026 — So here we are again, folks — another viral stunt gone wrong. Vlogger Jack Argota admitted he posted a fake medical certificate of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. online just to “keep up with the trend.” His words: “Wala … para makasabay sa uso … engagement, ganun.” 

(Nothing … just to keep up with the trend … engagement, that’s all.)

Argota even confessed he used an AI tool to “enhance” the document before sharing it, despite noticing obvious errors, like the wrong birthday. He later appeared before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Cybercrime Division, where he apologized and admitted his mistake. 

“May mali ako. Humingi ako ng pasensya,” he said.

(I made a mistake. I asked for forgiveness.)

But Malacañang isn’t buying the “sorry, my bad” defense. Palace officials stressed that this won’t simply end with an apology — laws must be enforced, and accountability must follow.

Now, what does this say about our online culture? In the Philippines, “uso” often drives trends — whether it’s dance challenges, memes, or viral pranks. But when “uso” crosses into fake documents about the President’s health, we’re no longer talking about harmless fun. We’re talking about cyber libel, data privacy violations, and the spread of disinformation.

The NBI has already filed cases against other personalities like Jay Sonza and Eric Celiz for similar posts. Argota’s case is separate, but it highlights a bigger issue: how easily fake content can spread when people chase clout without fact-checking.

Are we really willing to risk truth and accountability just to ride the wave?

(Image: Sir Jack Argota | Facebook)