Manila: Malaca±ang on Saturday dismissed Senator Alan Peter Cayetano's allegation against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as baseless, asserting that the lawmaker was merely trying to 'save himself from embarrassment.'

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro criticized Cayetano for creating intrigue and making unfounded claims to shift the blame, instead of taking responsibility for his own shortcomings. Castro questioned why Cayetano was unable to refrain from stirring up baseless stories and spreading intrigue.

Castro's comments followed Cayetano's claim on Friday that President Marcos rejected plans to distribute PHP10,000 in aid to Filipinos recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic after his election victory in 2022. Castro compared Cayetano's actions to the political tactics of his ally, former president Rodrigo Duterte, suggesting that the senator's claims were merely campaign rhetoric.

Castro further accused Cayetano of failing to own up to his responsibilities and instead pointing fingers at others to avoid embarrassment. She stated that the Palace would provide evidence to counter Cayetano's 'lies,' emphasizing that the senator was attempting to pass the blame for his own unfulfilled responsibilities onto others.