Dingdong Dantes Refutes Viral Claim About VP Sara Duterte's 2028 Presidential Ambitions
Actor Dingdong Dantes has firmly denied making any statement regarding Vice President Sara Duterte's reported intention to run for president in the 2028 elections. The controversy erupted when a fabricated post began circulating on social media, falsely attributing comments to the Kapuso Primetime King about Duterte's potential candidacy.
Fabricated Facebook Post Sparks Confusion
On Facebook, Dantes shared a screenshot of the viral post, which claimed to quote him as saying, "Dingdong Dantes said! Nakakatakot pag nanalo si VP Sara. Nakikita ko sa kanya ang tapang talino at abilidad na may kakayahang mamuno gaya ng kanyang ama." This translates to expressing fear if Vice President Sara wins, while acknowledging her courage, intelligence, and ability to lead like her father. In his caption, Dantes clarified unequivocally: "Hindi ko 'to sinabi," meaning he did not say this.
Post Removal and Apology Accepted
The misleading post has since been taken down from the platform, and the netizen responsible issued an apology to the actor. Dantes responded graciously, accepting the apology and emphasizing the importance of vigilance against misinformation. He wrote, "Apology accepted. Nawa'y maging mas mapanuri po tayong lahat, lalo na sa misinformation at disinformation... at sa bawat diskurso, piliin sana natin ang respeto sa kapwa Pilipino. Peace!" This translates to a call for greater scrutiny in discussions and choosing respect for fellow Filipinos.
Broader Implications for Public Discourse
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of misinformation in the digital age, particularly as the 2028 presidential election approaches. Dantes' response underscores the need for responsible sharing and critical thinking among netizens. His message promotes peace and respect, urging the public to verify information before spreading it online.
The actor's swift denial and the subsequent apology serve as a reminder of how easily false narratives can spread, potentially influencing public opinion. As political speculation grows, such cases emphasize the role of celebrities and public figures in shaping discourse and the importance of maintaining integrity in communications.
