AI‑Generated Video of Water Drum Panic‑Buying Debunked Amid Marcos’ Bucket Advice

A viral clip showing crowds storming a warehouse to buy large water drums was confirmed to be AI‑generated, according to SightEngine and Hive Detect. The footage, which gained 20 million views, was circulated after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to buy buckets for rainwater collection during an interview in Singapore on October 11. No credible reports confirm such a panic‑buying event. The Philippine government has announced plans to distribute water‑filtration kits through the Department of Social Welfare and Development, targeting communities declared in El Niño‑related calamity. While markets report higher demand for buckets and drums, officials and vendors caution against panic buying and emphasize that supplies remain available. The misinformation highlights the need for vigilance amid rising concerns over the looming Super El Niño.