Our attention was called today that misinformation is spreading about Sen. Bam Aquino’s recent visit to Marawi.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) would just like to state the fact that Sen. Bam Aquino, along with our stakeholders in the military, the business sector and the local government, were in Marawi to attend the launch of ARMM’s first Negosyo Center in Marawi, the 508th Negosyo Center in the country.

Sen. Bam is the author of the Go Negosyo Law that directed the DTI to establish Negosyo Centers in all municipalities, to give micro and small entrepreneurs access to entrepreneurship education, mentorship, money and market.

It is unfortunate that his visit is now the subject of false news and reports. We call on our countrymen, during this time in crisis, not resort to spreading lies and conspiracies as these may worsen the situation.

This government is a partner to all individuals and institutions that help improve lives and bring prosperity to all Filipinos.

Sen. Bam has been our partner in empowering the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sector for years, from his time as a social entrepreneur until he was elected senator.

We must unite for our country and against our common enemies.

All our thoughts and prayers are with our men in uniform and our countrymen in Mindanao.