MANILA – Malacañang criticized what it called “hypocrite” critics who ignored alleged wrongdoings of the previous administration but are now calling for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s resignation.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said some opposition members are questioning Marcos’ integrity despite his ongoing efforts to address government corruption.

“Don’t be hypocrites. We need people who truly fight corruption,” Castro said in a text message.

The statement was issued in response to former Anakalusugan party-list Rep. Mike Defensor, who led a motorcade along EDSA calling for Marcos’ resignation over alleged anomalous flood control projects. Defensor also said the President should be transparent about his health.

Castro pointed out that the opposition was largely silent when the previous administration faced corruption allegations.

“We are making the real condition of the President known—don’t be blind or deaf. And don’t remain a source of fake news,” she said.

She further challenged opposition figures to disclose evidence to support their claims, saying all allegations against Marcos are baseless without proof.

“Those who were silent about the blatant corruption during the previous administration—where were they then? Did they become enablers of the theft of public funds? Were they accomplices as well?” Castro asked.

Castro also criticized the “drama” surrounding the calls for resignation and urged the opposition to present facts rather than rely on insinuations or unverified claims.

Her remarks came after Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste alleged that Marcos administration representatives asked him to travel abroad and stop releasing evidence on flood control irregularities.

(PNA)