A YouTube video has circulated with the claim that Palace Press Officer Claire Castro has been banned from Canada following criticism from the Canadian Prime Minister. This claim is FALSE.
The video, titled "Ante Kler, ban na sa Canada? Grabe minister ng Canada galit din kay Kler?" (Is [Claire Castro] banned from Canada? Even a Canadian minister is furious at her?), was uploaded on July 4 and features a thumbnail depicting an agitated Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney alongside a seemingly distressed Claire Castro.
There is no evidence to support the assertion that Castro has been banned from Canada or that any Canadian minister has publicly criticized her. No Canadian government entity or official has announced any travel restrictions for Castro or issued statements condemning her actions.
The video emerged after Castro’s participation in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s official delegation during his working visit to Canada. During this visit, President Marcos Jr. met with Prime Minister Carney to discuss various bilateral agreements.
While in Vancouver, Castro was reportedly heckled by a group of Filipino protesters. The protesters voiced their opposition to Marcos’ resignation and directed insults at Castro. Following the incident, Castro expressed feeling uneasy but stated she would not file a formal complaint, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue despite political differences.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has indicated it is working with Canadian authorities to understand the circumstances of the confrontation and review security arrangements during the presidential visit.