Following the spread of messages on social media claiming that Chinese nationals control the majority of transactions, businesses, and services in Catanduanes, Vice Governor Peter Cua denied these claims, labeling them as purely political and fake information.

"Ang isyu na ito ay purely political, ano kasi, siguro, malapit na po ang eleksyon, sinabay sa issue dahil Chinese po kami, pero kami po ni Gov ay dito ipinanganak sa Catanduanes," Cua said.

Cua said their businesses in the province are legal and were passed down from their grandparents.

Governor Joseph Cua's camp, meanwhile, said they have sent a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group to request an investigation into the malicious messages circulating on social media. 

The officials hope that these offices will take prompt action on the issue.

Cua reminded the public to be careful with the information they see online. 

"Wag naman po kayong agad-agad maniniwala… i-verify muna natin, alam naman po natin sa Facebook, lalo na ay marami diyan na mga fake information [o] mga fake news," Cua said.