The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is investigating allegations of harassment faced by Claire Castro, a Palace Press Officer, during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s official visit to Vancouver, Canada.The DFA stated that Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma.Theresa P.

Lazaro instructed the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa and the Consulate General in Vancouver to collaborate with Canadian authorities to determine the incident's specifics and applicable laws.

Castro recounted being approached by a group of Filipinos while filming social media content, where one individual questioned her identity and shouted at her.

A video circulated online showed Castro walking with Presidential Communications Office Director Robertzon Ramirez when a group with bullhorns began heckling her in Filipino, using derogatory terms like 'BBM resign' (referring to President Marcos) and 'magnanakaw' (thief).The group followed Castro and Ramirez, who were escorted by police.The incident has sparked discussions about the treatment of officials abroad and the role of social media in amplifying such events.

The DFA's probe aims to address legal and security protocols for visiting dignitaries, highlighting the intersection of diplomacy and public scrutiny.