Marcos reaffirms ‘unwavering’ trust in Teodoro amid resignation rumors – Palace

Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed his "unwavering" trust and confidence in Defense Secretary Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr., the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said on Thursday, Sept. 12, in response to the grapevine about his resignation.

"Rumors to the contrary are pathetic attempts to sow disunity in an organization united in protecting our people and defending our territory," Communications Secretary Cesar Chavez said in response to the circulating rumors.

The PCO said the speculations were part of a broader trend of "corrosive politicking."

"Busy as they are with their mission, we should spare our fighting men from the corrosive politicking that has no place in their ranks," Chavez added, without identifying a specific person or group.

The Department of National Defense (DND) appealed to those spreading false information.

"We urge those who deliberately spread unfounded lies to be circumspect and refrain from disseminating misinformation and disinformation," the DND said in a separate statement.

The agency also called on the public to remain vigilant against those attempting to sow discord and distract the Filipino people from real issues facing the country.