The Batangas provincial government has moved to address a growing online controversy involving Governor Vilma Santos-Recto, following the circulation of a shortened video clip taken from a recent media interview.

In a statement released through official channels and shared on social media, provincial officials said the viral content does not accurately reflect the governor’s full remarks.

According to the Provincial Information Office, the circulating video was extracted from a longer discussion in which Santos-Recto was speaking about the growing spread of misinformation and the culture of online bashing. Officials stressed that selective editing led to a misleading interpretation, creating the impression that the governor was criticizing the general public.

The provincial government emphasized that the interview focused on the dangers of fabricated news, manipulated content, and coordinated online attacks. Santos-Recto’s remarks, they said, were intended to remind the public to exercise discernment when consuming and sharing information, particularly on digital platforms where false narratives can quickly gain traction.

Clarifying further, the governor’s camp underscored that her comments were not directed at ordinary citizens, but at the broader issue of deliberate disinformation and irresponsible content creation. The statement framed the controversy as part of a wider challenge faced by public institutions, where misinformation undermines constructive dialogue and informed decision-making.

In light of the incident, the Batangas provincial government reiterated its call for stronger media literacy and online accountability. Officials urged the public to verify sources, seek complete and credible information, and avoid amplifying content taken out of context.

As debate continues on social media, the provincial government maintained that open discussion remains welcome—so long as it is grounded in truth, fairness, and respect.