MANILA, Philippines — Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla denied reports that he had been hospitalized and addressed the issue during a radio interview on Saturday, calling the claims false.
Remulla appeared on DZRH after online posts circulated late Thursday alleging that he had been admitted to a hospital. In the interview, Remulla said he was in good health and explained that he was late for the program because he had gone to the gym.
Earlier, Remulla dismissed the reports in a brief message to the Inquirer, describing them as “fake news.” His brother, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, also denied the claims and said the ombudsman was playing golf on Friday morning. Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano likewise rejected the reports and said Remulla was not hospitalized.
During the interview, Remulla discussed the spread of misinformation online and urged netizens to maintain a single online identity. He said the use of multiple or anonymous accounts contributes to the spread of false information.
Remulla also said artificial intelligence could be used to remove fake or troll accounts on social media platforms if necessary. He noted, however, that some platforms, including Facebook, no longer require fact-checking for posts, which he said makes it easier for misinformation to circulate.
The hospitalization rumors began spreading around 5:30 p.m. Thursday, largely through social media accounts linked to supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte. The posts appeared after Remulla publicly explained the legal basis for Duterte’s handover to the International Criminal Court in The Hague to face charges related to killings during the anti-drug campaign.
No medical records or official documents have been presented to support the hospitalization claims.