FALSE: De Leon calls PBBM’s Canada visit an attempt to dodge accountability 

Jessie Marco Cabrera

A Facebook post by the page “Ang Balita Ngayon” claimed that retired Brigadier General Orlando De Leon accused President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. of using his state visit to Canada to escape accountability amid the Iglesia ni Cristo’s protest held in support of Senator Rodante Marcoleta.

CLAIM:

The post claimed that in his social media post, De Leon said that if the president continues with the visit amid the ongoing tension in the country, it might show ‘avoiding accountability’ and ‘turning his back on responsibility.’

”If BBM flies to Canada tomorrow while the country is in turmoil, that can be considered as a ‘flight’ from accountability and abandonment of responsibility. Go ahead BBM,” the post stated, quoting De Leon.

RATING: FALSE

CONCLUSION:

Ret. Bgen. Orlando De Leon did not make a statement saying if the President continues his state visit, it might portray an image of avoiding responsibility.

THE FACTS:

• De Leon does not have a publicly accessible social media account. Additionally, no media interview or coverage supports the claim.
• President Marcos’ schedule for a state visit to Canada is to discuss defense and economic relations, according to the Presidential Communications Office.
• The Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) staged a rally in parts of Metro Manila on Tuesday in support of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who is facing a possible arrest for alleged plunder.

THE BOTTOMLINE:

The statement is likely fabricated. De Leon did not release any reaction or statement regarding the continuation of PBBM’s visit to Canada.