Malacañang on Monday brushed aside reports of alleged recruitment efforts involving military personnel for a supposed coup plot against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., describing the claims as “old news.”
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said similar allegations have surfaced before and should be left to law enforcement agencies for verification.
“Matagal na pong balita iyan… hindi na po iyan bago,” Castro said in a briefing, referring to recurring claims of destabilization efforts against the administration.
The statement came after Senator Panfilo Lacson cited reports of efforts to recruit both active and retired military personnel in connection with an alleged plot against the President.
Castro acknowledged that Lacson’s remarks carry weight but emphasized that such information must still undergo proper validation.
She added that concerned agencies should proceed with their own assessment and investigation without further instruction.
Castro also dismissed speculation about a possible Cabinet reshuffle, including reports that she would be replaced.
“Sa ngayon wala po,” she said, adding that she continues to serve at the discretion of the President.
She urged the public to avoid spreading unverified reports and to wait for official announcements.