CAGAYAN de Oro 1st District Rep. Lordan Suan urged the public to differentiate legitimate news from misinformation, claiming that fake news circulating on social media is being funded by influential individuals.
Speaking at the turnover ceremony of basketball, volleyball, and sepak takraw courts at Lumbia National High School on February 13, Suan addressed reporters’ questions about fake social media accounts spreading misinformation about him.
Suan clarified that he does not manage the page “The Working Congressman” and only operates the ‘Atty. Lordan Suan’ page, which has 71,000 followers.
The congressman said he does not hold grudges against social media trolls, acknowledging that some engage in such activities as a livelihood.
He emphasized that his focus remains on his ongoing projects.
“Pahinumdom sa tanan nga wa gyud ko sukad nagpagawas ug mga isog nga mga words, mga pamahayag nga gapangaway, di ko gapangaway. Rare ra kaayo na muhisgot ko bahin sa lahi nga politiko. Dili nako na style ang mag-inisog,” said Suan.
The online attacks against him emerged following his support for an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio. Suan, along with over 240 lawmakers, signed the complaint, saying he found its contents valid.
However, Suan denied accusations that he signed the complaint in exchange for financial aid or political favors, labeling such claims as misinformation.
He expressed concern over the growing trend of disinformation, stating that the smear campaign against him appears to be a well-coordinated, nationwide effort backed by wealthy sponsors.
“Naay concerted effort nga gubaon ko specifically. Nationwide pa gyud sya. So, I don’t know naay mga dagko gyud kaayo ani nga mga deep pockets gyud gapaluyo ani,” he said.
