Proof of life: Former House Speaker Sonny Belmonte holds a latest issue of a newspaper to show he is perfectly well. From Quezon City Public Information Office
MANILA, Philippines — Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Thursday denied reports that her father, former House Speaker Sonny Belmonte has passed away.
This, after false “breaking news” art cards on the Belmonte patriarch began spreading online.
“There is absolutely no truth to this alleged ‘Breaking News’ item,” Belmonte said in a statement. “By God’s Grace, my father is alive, well, and in good spirits.”
“I can assure everyone that my Dad is perfectly healthy.”
Belmonte called for all “truth-loving netizens” to refrain from sharing the news, and correct fellow social media users if they encounter it on their social media feeds.
The local chief executive also pointed out that the art cards were posted at close time intervals.
“Like other fake news of this nature, I can only speculate its origins, and wonder why several deceptive art cards were posted at approximately the same time,” she said.
RELATED STORY
Duterte appoints ex-LP stalwart Sonny Belmonte as special envoy to Japan