The Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines (ARRAPI) has condemned recent online allegations that Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. holds a foreign passport, calling the claims "malicious and misleading."

ARRAPI leaders voiced strong support for Teodoro, dismissing rumors he possesses a Maltese passport as "a desperate attempt to discredit a highly qualified and patriotic public servant."

"Secretary Teodoro has already renounced his Maltese citizenship in 2021, long before returning to government service," said ARRAPI president Lt. Col. Vladimir Mata. "These claims are baseless and politically motivated. Let us not allow fake news to undermine the credibility of someone who has dedicated his life to public service and national defense."

The Department of National Defense previously issued a statement clarifying Teodoro no longer holds a foreign passport, affirming his full compliance with all legal and constitutional requirements for public office. Teodoro has also personally denied the accusations.

Meantime, ARRAPI chairperson Lt. Col. Michael Romero suggested the timing of the "fake news" was suspicious.

"These attacks appear just as Secretary Teodoro is pushing forward key reforms to modernize the AFP and strengthen our territorial defense," Romero said. "We must remain focused on what matters -- national security, not political noise."

With nearly 7,000 members nationwide, ARRAPI reiterated its support for Teodoro's leadership, citing his "clear vision, decisive action, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of soldiers and reservists alike."

The group urged the public to verify information through official government channels and reject efforts to derail progress in the defense sector.

"Fake news has no place in a democracy. We stand behind Secretary Teodoro and his mission to defend the Republic," Mata added.