FACT CHECK: No arrest warrant issued vs Marcoleta

A recent claim circulating online suggested that an arrest warrant had been issued against Senator Rodante Marcoleta. However, according to multiple reports, this assertion is false. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has explicitly denied receiving any such warrant. This clarification comes amid growing speculation fueled by social media posts and viral content suggesting that Marcoleta might soon face arrest.

The misinformation originated from a Facebook page known as "Makata Ng Bayan," which posted claims about an arrest warrant against the senator. As of June 19, the post had already attracted over 19,000 reactions, 6,200 comments, and 6,300 shares. The post prompted numerous YouTube content creators to produce videos discussing the potential arrest, often using AI-generated images depicting Marcoleta being taken into custody. Additionally, some users on the platform encouraged protests against the alleged arrest, even suggesting the involvement of the religious group Iglesia ni Cristo. Others speculated that the government might resort to imposing martial law.

Despite these claims, both the PNP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) have stated that there is no basis for such an arrest. At a press briefing held on June 22, PNP public information chief Colonel Allen Rae Co confirmed that the police had not received any official communication regarding an arrest warrant. Similarly, PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that the PNP would only act upon verified legal orders from competent courts. He reiterated the PNP's commitment to maintaining professionalism and political neutrality, ensuring that its operations remain grounded in the rule of law and the preservation of public order.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla further clarified that an arrest warrant can only be issued after formal charges have been filed in court. According to Remulla, there are currently no such charges pending against Marcoleta at the Sandiganbayan, the anti-graft court responsible for handling cases involving high-ranking officials. This aligns with Marcoleta's own statements, in which he acknowledged that he had not yet been formally charged but expressed readiness to face any consequences arising from his alleged involvement in campaign finance irregularities.

Marcoleta himself addressed the issue in a social media post dated June 16, where he indicated that an arrest warrant might eventually be issued due to complaints related to the non-disclosure of P75 million in campaign donations. He explained that these donations were received prior to his candidacy and thus were not included in his Statement of Contributions and Expenditures. Nevertheless, the Office of the Ombudsman requested a precautionary hold departure order from the Sandiganbayan, preventing Marcoleta and three other individuals from leaving the country until their cases are resolved.

The situation surrounding Marcoleta involves several key players, including the PNP, DILG, the Ombudsman, and the Sandiganbayan. Each of these entities plays a critical role in determining the legal proceedings against the senator. The Ombudsman has initiated investigations into the alleged misuse of campaign funds, while the Sandiganbayan holds jurisdiction over the matter. Meanwhile, the PNP and DILG continue to emphasize their adherence to legal procedures and the absence of any immediate action against Marcoleta.

As the legal process unfolds, the public and media remain attentive to developments. The PNP and DILG have reaffirmed their positions, emphasizing that any action against Marcoleta will be based solely on verified legal documents. Until then, the senator appears prepared to face whatever outcome arises from the ongoing investigation. The situation highlights the importance of verifying information before it spreads widely, especially in the digital age where misinformation can rapidly gain traction and influence public perception.