Fact Check: No Evidence to Support Viral Claim That President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Tested Positive for HIV.

MNILA, Philippines – A claim circulating on social media in April 2026 alleges that Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. tested positive for HIV. The allegation originated from a post by US-based social media influencer Deen Chase.
In his post, Chase said he had “finally recovered” his account after months of battling alleged hackers and claimed he had information supposedly being kept from the public. He wrote: “THE PRESIDENT HAS AIDS. I’m not sure how I can keep my account up. GOD SAVE THE PHILIPPINES.”
READ MORE ARTICLES:
- CEBU: Meet the Mind Behind RUTA, the AI App Aiming to Simplify Cebu Commuting
- Two Americans Among 19 Killed in Clash Between Philippine Troops and Suspected Communist Rebels
- Supreme Court Orders Marcos Jr, Ralph Recto to Comment on Petition Seeking Drug & Health Test
- COA Disallows P375 Million in Confidential Funds of VP Sara Duterte for 2023
The statement quickly spread across various social media platforms, prompting discussions and reactions online.
No Evidence Presented. However, the claim remains unverified.
Chase did not provide any evidence, documentation, medical records, or official confirmation to support his allegation. As of this writing, there are no official statements, medical disclosures, or verified reports confirming that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has HIV or AIDS.
There has also been no official response from Malacañang regarding the viral allegation. Although Deen Chase made the allegations, there is no credible evidence to substantiate them, and Malacañang has officially labeled the claims as “fake news.” However, the Palace has yet to issue a detailed statement on the matter, especially after the Supreme Court directed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Finance Secretary Ralph Recto to respond to a petition seeking a drug and health test.
In an interview, Claire Castro, Undersecretary of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and Malacañang Press Officer, said the administration would comply with the Court’s directive.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the country’s response to HIV and AIDS, directing the Department of Health (DOH) to intensify prevention efforts, expand access to life-saving treatment, and confront the steady rise in new infections.
The President has underscored the need for a “whole-of-society” approach, calling on government agencies, local government units, civil society groups, and communities to work together in addressing what health officials describe as a rapidly growing public health concern in the Philippines.
His administration is also pushing for the full implementation of Republic Act 11166, or the HIV and AIDS Policy Act of 2018, to bolster prevention programs, improve treatment coverage, and enhance support services for people living with HIV.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system. If untreated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most advanced stage of HIV infection. A person’s HIV status is private medical information and cannot be confirmed without authorized medical disclosure.
Based on available information, the viral statement is an unsubstantiated allegation with no verified proof. Until credible evidence or official confirmation is released, the claim should be treated as unverified.
The public is reminded to exercise caution when sharing health-related allegations about any individual, particularly when no reliable sources or official documents support the claim. Spreading unverified medical information can contribute to misinformation and unnecessary confusion.
Deen Chase: The Filipino-American Vlogger Behind Viral Political “Exposés”
Deen Chase, whose real name is Michael Cano, is a Filipino-American social media personality known for his controversial political commentaries and self-described “exposés.” In recent years, he has drawn attention online for posts and videos that often criticize Philippine public officials and government institutions.
Chase maintains an active presence on major platforms including Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, where he identifies himself as a “political commentator” or “public figure.” His content typically centers on Philippine politics, current events, and allegations involving high-profile personalities.
Through livestreams and opinion-driven videos, he has built a following among viewers who are drawn to his direct style and confrontational tone. At the same time, critics have questioned the accuracy of some of his claims, pointing to the lack of verifiable evidence in certain posts.
Although originally from the Philippines, Chase is currently based in Los Angeles, California. He has publicly cited his residence in the United States as part of his argument that Philippine legal actions against him fall outside local jurisdiction.
This position has sparked debate online, particularly when his commentaries involve Philippine public officials. Legal experts have noted that jurisdiction in cross-border online cases can be complex, especially when digital content is accessible in multiple countries.
Chase’s online activity has generated both support and backlash. Supporters view him as an outspoken critic willing to challenge powerful figures, while detractors argue that some of his claims contribute to misinformation and political polarization.
As social media continues to shape public discourse, personalities like Deen Chase illustrate the growing influence and controversy surrounding digital commentators operating across national boundaries.
Legal Troubles and Controversies Surround Deen Chase
Filipino-American vlogger Deen Chase, whose real name is Michael Cano, has been embroiled in a series of legal disputes and public controversies stemming from his online posts and political commentaries.
In April 2025, Gwendolyn Garcia filed 10 counts of cyberlibel against Chase before prosecutors in Cebu. The complaint was lodged after the vlogger allegedly described the governor on social media as “corrupt, abusive, and extortionist.”
Garcia’s legal team argued that the statements were defamatory and damaging to her reputation. The case marked one of the most significant legal challenges faced by Chase in connection with his online activities.
Chase drew national attention again in early 2026 after he accused Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos of illegal drug use. He also circulated what he claimed to be an explicit photograph of the First Lady.
Malacañang Palace swiftly denied the allegations, branding them as “fake news” and asserting that the claims were intended to undermine the integrity of the President and his family. Palace officials emphasized that no credible evidence had been presented to support the accusations.
Amid the controversies, Chase has reportedly lost access to several of his social media accounts, including pages on Facebook and TikTok. The reported restrictions followed complaints about the provocative and potentially harmful nature of some of his posts.
The developments highlight the increasing scrutiny faced by digital content creators, particularly those engaged in political commentary, as authorities and platforms grapple with issues of misinformation, accountability, and cross-border jurisdiction.
- #FACTCHECK: Deen Chase Says President Bongbong Marcos Jr. Has HIV/AIDS
- Keir Starmer | Life, Education, Public service, Issues
- UK Steps Up Emergency Plans as Iran War Threatens Food and Fuel Supplies
- CEBU: Meet the Mind Behind RUTA, the AI App Aiming to Simplify Cebu Commuting
- Two Americans Among 19 Killed in Clash Between Philippine Troops and Suspected Communist Rebels
- Ukraine Marks 40th Anniversary of Chornobyl Disaster, Facing Fresh Nuclear Safety Risks Amid Ongoing War
- Trump Cancels Envoys’ Pakistan Trip for Iran Peace Mission as Israel Escalates Lebanon Strikes Amid Stalled Talks
- Jayden Fernandez Admits to Scandal Video, Apologizes to Partner and Family
- Supreme Court Orders Marcos Jr, Ralph Recto to Comment on Petition Seeking Drug & Health Test