Palace Denies Ex-Spokesperson's Claim of President Marcos' Colon Cancer
In a dramatic development that has sparked public concern, former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque has made a serious allegation regarding the health of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. Roque claimed that the President is suffering from colon cancer, presenting what he described as evidence of Marcos undergoing a colostomy procedure. This assertion, made on February 11, 2026, immediately raised questions about its veracity and the integrity of the source in an era where digital information spreads rapidly.
Official Rebuttal from Malacañang
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro issued a firm and unequivocal denial during a press conference at Malacañang on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Castro was specifically asked to address Roque's allegations and responded by labeling the claim as nothing more than a rumor without any factual basis. She emphasized that such propaganda not only constitutes a personal attack on the President but also poses a threat to the nation's stability.
Castro elaborated on the potential consequences of Roque's statements, stating that they could damage the government's image, harm the President's reputation, and, most critically, negatively impact the Philippine economy. She warned that investors might become anxious about the country's leadership stability if such unfounded claims gain traction. Castro urged the public not to readily believe Roque's declarations, describing the former spokesperson as a purveyor of misinformation.
Understanding the Medical Context
To provide clarity, a colostomy is a serious surgical procedure where an opening is created in the colon through the abdominal wall. This allows waste to pass into an external pouch, typically performed when there are significant intestinal issues such as cancer or severe injury, giving the affected body part time to heal. Alleging that a national leader has undergone this procedure is a substantial claim that requires solid medical evidence to support it.
Historical Context of Health Speculations
This is not the first instance where the President's health has been a topic of discussion. Previously, Malacañang had denied reports that Marcos underwent surgery for diverticulitis. However, in a video message released by the President himself, he acknowledged being diagnosed with diverticulitis, highlighting a pattern where health-related rumors have circulated, some of which have been partially validated while others, like the current colon cancer claim, are firmly rejected by official sources.
The situation underscores the challenges of navigating health disclosures in the public sphere, where unverified information can quickly escalate into national concerns. As the Palace continues to defend the President's well-being, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of relying on credible sources and official statements in an age of rampant digital speculation.
