Marcoleta Responds to Vlogger’s Insults
RODANTE MARCOLETA – The congressman has called for a vlogger, identified as “Epifanio Labrador” on social media, to appear before the House of Representatives.
Marcoleta made this request after the vlogger allegedly insulted him, calling him “demonyo” and “diablo,” while also directing similar remarks toward religious leader Apollo Quiboloy. Additionally, the vlogger reportedly cursed both Marcoleta and Quiboloy, further escalating the issue.
Beyond these offensive remarks, the vlogger also questioned Marcoleta’s religious beliefs. In response, Marcoleta emphasized his role as a public servant, stating that his duty is to serve regardless of criticism. “Tayo po, ang ating role lang eh basta ayusin lang po natin ang ating pagsisilbi. Kahit ano po’ng sabihin nila sa’tin. Tignan niyo po ‘yung pagmumura nila sa akin, ni hindi ko nga po kilala ‘yan eh. Kung murahin niya po ako eh, narinig po ninyo lahat kung anong pinagsasabi niya. But people, I think, will not believe him dahil hindi po ako ‘yun, ‘yung sinasabihan niya,” Marcoleta stated.
This incident arises amid the House of Representatives’ ongoing efforts to combat the spread of fake news and misinformation on social media. In February 2025, the House’s tripartite committee invited around 40 social media influencers to a hearing to address the issue. Among those invited were well-known figures such as MJ Quiambao Reyes and Krizette Laureta Chu, who were asked to serve as resource persons in tackling the growing problem of online disinformation.
Meanwhile, Rodante Dizon Marcoleta is a lawyer and politician currently serving as the SAGIP party-list representative since 2016. Previously, he represented the Alagad party-list (2004–2013) and served as House Deputy Speaker (2019–2022).
He is known for opposing ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal and pushing to cut the Commission on Human Rights’ budget to ₱1,000. He also co-authored the Magna Carta of the Poor. In 2021, he promoted ivermectin despite health warnings.
Marcoleta withdrew from the 2022 Senate race due to low survey rankings but later filed for the 2025 elections. In 2024, he was expelled from five House committees for allegedly supporting Vice President Sara Duterte.