FALSE: Usec. Castro calls for internet ban in PH, limits access to Senate 

Mig Anishi Zamora

A quote card circulating on Facebook attributes an alleged statement to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro, stating that she proposed banning internet access in the Philippines and limiting its use to the Senate. 

CLAIM:

The post claims that Castro called for a nationwide internet ban, stating that only members of the Senate should be allowed to use it.

“Kailangan ng i-banned ang internet sa Pilipinas at kaming nasa senado lang ang maaring gumamit,” the post stated, allegedly quoting Castro.

RATING: FALSE

CONCLUSION:

There are no official records, verified reports, or public statements from Usec. Claire Castro containing this remark. The circulating quote is not attributed to any legitimate source, nor does it indicate when or where it was allegedly said. The claim appears to be fabricated and falsely linked to the official. 

THE FACTS:

• No verified post, interview, press briefing, or official transcript shows that Usec. Claire Castro made any statement calling for a nationwide internet ban or restricting access to the Senate. 
• Usec. Claire Castro serves as the Palace Press Officer and Undersecretary of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) under the Executive branch. Because she is not a lawmaker, the phrase “kaming nasa senado” (we in the senate) is factually inconsistent with her official government position. 
• Existing policies in the Philippines focus only on regulating illegal online content—such as blocking specific websites—not banning internet access nationwide or limiting it to government officials.

THE BOTTOMLINE:

While the post continues to circulate online, there is no verified statement from Usec. Claire Castro supporting a nationwide internet ban or restricting access to the Senate. The quote being shared lacks any credible source and contradicts her official role, indicating that the statement was fabricated and falsely attributed to the Palace official.