NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Acidre Slams Imee Video Controversy As 'Political Vandalism'
Photo credit: Rep. Jude Acidre
House Committee on Higher and Technical Education chair Jude Acidre on Tuesday sharply criticized Senator Imee Marcos over the controversial video she presented in the Senate, calling the incident an example of “political vandalism” and a sign of the growing decline in political discourse.
Acidre questioned how the Senate, which he described as an institution meant for serious debate and lawmaking, had become a venue for what he called political theatrics driven by insinuations and unverified narratives.
The controversy stemmed from a video shown during Marcos’ privilege speech that allegedly linked administration figures to a supposed Charter change or Cha-cha plot. The material later drew objections from several senators, with critics reportedly labeling it as propaganda and fake news. Marcos eventually withdrew the video presentation.
According to Acidre, the issue went beyond the withdrawal itself, saying the damage had already been done once the material was aired on the Senate floor.
“Withdrawal is welcome, but accountability does not end when the video is pulled back,” Acidre said, stressing that public officials should be more responsible when using institutional platforms.
He warned that allowing such tactics to become normal in political discussions could encourage officials to spread unverified claims and rely on social media outrage before facts are fully established.
Acidre also said the controversy reflects a larger problem in Philippine politics where spectacle and intrigue sometimes overshadow evidence-based discussions and responsible governance.
“This is everything that has gone wrong in Philippine politics,” he said, adding that privilege speeches should serve accountability and truth—not fuel conspiracy theories or damage reputations without proof.
The House leader emphasized that statements delivered on the Senate floor carry the authority of the institution itself, making it even more important for lawmakers to exercise restraint and credibility in public discussions.
Acidre said the Senate could only regain public trust by rejecting performative politics and focusing instead on truth, responsible scrutiny, and legislation that genuinely benefits the public.
“Our politics needs less fake news and more truth,” he added.
Acidre questioned how the Senate, which he described as an institution meant for serious debate and lawmaking, had become a venue for what he called political theatrics driven by insinuations and unverified narratives.
The controversy stemmed from a video shown during Marcos’ privilege speech that allegedly linked administration figures to a supposed Charter change or Cha-cha plot. The material later drew objections from several senators, with critics reportedly labeling it as propaganda and fake news. Marcos eventually withdrew the video presentation.
According to Acidre, the issue went beyond the withdrawal itself, saying the damage had already been done once the material was aired on the Senate floor.
“Withdrawal is welcome, but accountability does not end when the video is pulled back,” Acidre said, stressing that public officials should be more responsible when using institutional platforms.
He warned that allowing such tactics to become normal in political discussions could encourage officials to spread unverified claims and rely on social media outrage before facts are fully established.
Acidre also said the controversy reflects a larger problem in Philippine politics where spectacle and intrigue sometimes overshadow evidence-based discussions and responsible governance.
“This is everything that has gone wrong in Philippine politics,” he said, adding that privilege speeches should serve accountability and truth—not fuel conspiracy theories or damage reputations without proof.
The House leader emphasized that statements delivered on the Senate floor carry the authority of the institution itself, making it even more important for lawmakers to exercise restraint and credibility in public discussions.
Acidre said the Senate could only regain public trust by rejecting performative politics and focusing instead on truth, responsible scrutiny, and legislation that genuinely benefits the public.
“Our politics needs less fake news and more truth,” he added.
May 26, 2026
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