Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque has strongly denied the sworn affidavit of vlogger Pebbles Cunanan, who claimed he masterminded the circulation of the controversial “polvoron video” allegedly portraying President Bongbong Marcos as using illegal drugs.
Former Pro-Duterte social media personality Pebbles Cunana said former Duterte presidential spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque was behind the digitally manipulated video purporting to show Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. abusing illegal drugs which made the rounds last year.
— Ivan 🇵🇭🇻🇦 (@IvanAtHome) April 8, 2025
The Cunanan… https://t.co/ABVOlXrn10 pic.twitter.com/KDp69qlzeJ
In a Facebook post, Roque said he was not surprised by Cunanan’s appearance at a recent House Tri-Committee (TriCom) hearing. He claimed pro-Duterte vloggers and influencers have become targets of a “political witch hunt” under the Marcos administration, which may explain Cunanan’s cooperation with the investigation.
However, Roque firmly rejected specific allegations made by Cunanan.
“Maharlika was never in Vancouver, Canada, and the ‘polvoron video’ did not first surface there, contrary to Ms. Pebbles’ claim,” he wrote. “Also, her statement that I have the capacity to topple the government is completely untrue.”
Roque emphasized that Cunanan’s statements were based on personal opinions, not verified facts.
“Opinions are not facts. The affidavit does not mean anything. It has no weight,” he stressed.
He also criticized the House TriCom for relying on the testimony of a vlogger in such a serious inquiry.
“I thought vloggers were considered fake news peddlers? Since when did Ms. Pebbles become a forensic expert?” Roque questioned. “Everything is just a show. The TriCom has a ready script, complete with a PowerPoint presentation, featuring a photo of a photo taken at a dinner, videos, and screenshots.”
The so-called “polvoron video” became a viral sensation earlier this year after it circulated on social media, sparking speculation and online backlash. Supporters of President Marcos dismissed the video as doctored and part of a smear campaign. Meanwhile, opposition voices and pro-Duterte personalities have been accused of playing a role in the video’s dissemination.
Roque’s denial and strong words against Cunanan and the TriCom highlight ongoing political tension within the administration’s allies and critics, particularly between supporters of Marcos and Duterte.
As investigations continue, questions remain about the video’s origin and intent—whether it was a deliberate attempt at character assassination or simply a hoax that spiraled out of control.
The House TriCom has yet to respond to Roque’s statement.