Vlogger Vicente Bencalo “Pebbles” Cunanan has implicated former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque in orchestrating the dissemination of a doctored video aimed at discrediting President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
This so-called ‘polvoron’ video falsely portrays the President engaging in illicit drug use, a blatant attempt to tarnish his reputation and destabilize his administration.
Details of Cunanan’s Testimony
During a recent session of the House TriComm’s inquiry into the proliferation of fake news, Cunanan testified that on July 7, 2024, at a gathering of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s supporters in Hong Kong, Roque informed her about a screenshot from the controversial video.
Cunanan further revealed that on July 22, 2024, the day of President Marcos’ State of the Nation Address, Roque sent her both raw and manipulated versions of the video.
The enhanced version was allegedly edited to falsely depict President Marcos in a compromising situation.
Roque’s Alleged Boast and Impact on Governance
Cunanan also recounted Roque’s boastful claim during a July 2024 gathering, where he allegedly stated, “Magaling ako magpabagsak ng gobyerno” (“I am good at bringing down governments”).
This assertion, coupled with the deliberate spread of the falsified video, underscores a calculated effort to undermine the duly elected leader of our nation.
Roque’s Denial and Legal Consequences
In response to these allegations, Roque dismissed them as laughable, stating, “Nakakatawa naman ‘yan.
Wala naman ako kahit isang baril. Wala rin akong sinabing gumamit tayo ng dahas” (“That is so funny. I don’t have a single gun, and I did not say anything about taking up arms”).
He further speculated that Cunanan’s testimony might be motivated by personal financial struggles.
It’s worth noting that in September 2024, former National Telecommunications Commission head Melvin Matibag filed a disbarment petition against Roque, citing his involvement in spreading the fabricated ‘polvoron’ video.
Roque defended his actions by invoking free speech protections, though the legal proceedings are ongoing.
The Growing Threat of Deepfake Videos
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which certain individuals will go to destabilize a government that upholds conservative values and prioritizes the welfare of its citizens.
The creation and dissemination of deepfake videos represent a dangerous escalation in political warfare, undermining the democratic process and the will of the people.
As staunch defenders of truth and integrity, we must remain vigilant against such malicious attempts to subvert our nation’s leadership.
The Filipino people deserve transparency and honesty, not deceit and manipulation.
