On February 25, a certain Facebook page named “Davao Trend” posted a quote card that featured presidential aspirant Leni Robredo taken from DZRH’s Presidential Job Interview last February 2. The quote card showed how Robredo compared the China-Philippines relations with the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Davao Trend then claimed that the Philippines will be the “next Ukraine” if Robredo becomes president and she decides to “go to war” against China.
CLAIM:
Davao Trend claimed that the Philippines will be the “next Ukraine” if Robredo becomes president and decides to “go to war” against China
RATING:
FALSE
FACTS:
In the DZRH’s Bakit Ikaw Presidential Interviews, held more than two weeks before Russia invaded Ukraine, Robredo was asked about her thoughts and possible official presidential position as regards developments in Eastern Europe and Myanmar. The panelist cited the tense situation between Ukraine and Russia, as well as the situation in Myanmar.
The quote card captured only part of Robredo’s answer. She began by saying that she will first secure the safety of the 342 Filipinos in the area. She further explained that she will tap the Philippine embassies in the countries involved. The quote card, along with the accompanying caption, was presented in a way that convoluted Robredo’s answer to make it appear that she will declare war against China if she becomes president.
This is far from the truth. In the DZRH interview, the panelist asked Robredo pointblank if the Philippines need to side with Ukraine, citing the country’s relationship with the US. Robredo answered, “Hindi tayo kinakailangan kumampi sa Ukraine. Hindi nga tayo kailangan makisali.” When asked if she is willing to go to war against China, she answered, “Hindi tayo makikipagdigmaan.”
WHY IT MATTERS:
As of writing, the post has over 8,800 reactions, 2,200 comments, and 6,700 shares. The Facebook page that posted the quote card has 216,776 followers. – Philip Mateo & Lyka Naranjo
Altermidya Network is part of #FactsFirstPH which brings together various sectors that are committed to promoting truth in the public space, and exacting accountability on those who harm it with lies. For those interested to join the initiative, email info@factsfirst.ph.
