Warning After Fake Twitter Account Of Malta President

Feb 13 2025

The Office of the President of Malta (OPR) issued a warning against multiple fake social media accounts impersonating President Myriam Spiteri Debono which were detected on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

Some of these profiles have used AI-generated deepfake videos to falsely attribute comments and on-camera footage to the President, promoting fraudulent financial schemes, primarily cryptocurrency investments.

One such account, @MyriamDebono, was even granted verification on Elon Musk’s platform, X, receiving a grey checkmark meant for official government accounts.

The account, created only this month, reportedly retweeted content from international politicians and dignitaries before abruptly shifting to posting Greek-language content, followed by misleading announcements about a “Malta National Crypto Coin on Solana.” It gained 50,000 followers before being suspended, Times of Malta reported.

Despite X’s verification process requiring government-issued ID or a linked official email, the fake account managed to bypass these safeguards, raising concerns about the platform’s handling of misinformation.

The genuine account of the President, @president_mt, remains unverified.

The OPR has reported these fraudulent profiles to the relevant authorities and urges the public to remain vigilant.

#MaltaDaily

32 Children Currently Being Treated For Cancer In Malta

Feb 13 2025

Minister Jo Etienne Abela revealed in parliament that there were 32 boys and girls receiving cancer treatment in Malta.

Each year, an average of 15 to 20 new cases were diagnosed, with treatment typically lasting between six months and three years.

Additionally, three children were reported to be undergoing treatment abroad.

The most common reasons for seeking overseas treatment include the need for bone marrow transplants, specialized chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and complicated surgeries that could not be provided locally.

#MaltaDaily

Meeting People Mon. Dun Victor Grech Helped In His Life

Feb 13 2025

The team behind Popolin met with the people who experienced the help by Mon. Dun Victor Grech, a founder of CARITAS.

In a special episode commemorating the memory of the late Dun Victor Grech, many shared how generous and loving he was as he helped many around the island face their challenges with drug addiction.

The Monsignor passed away earlier this month at the age of 95, but has left a legacy of support and care, which all the people who he helped are sure to never forget and pass onto those still in need.

#MaltaDaily

Agenzija Sapport’s Carnival Project For Persons With Disabilities

Feb 13 2025

Aġenzija Sapport, through its Day Centres, is preparing a special project for this year’s Carnival, which includes a dance performance and a float themed “This is Me.”

This project not only provides an artistic expression space for people with disabilities but also highlights the importance of inclusion in society through Maltese culture and traditional celebrations.

For the first time, people with disabilities are professionally working on a Carnival float, marking a significant step towards greater participation and visibility within the community.

Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia visited the preparations for this project, alongside the CEO of Aġenzija Sapport, Oliver Scicluna.

The Carnival project this year includes a unique dance coordinated by the Ħal Far Day Centre, featuring 16 participants with disabilities and 10 staff members, including individuals using wheelchairs.

The performance will also incorporate Maltese Sign Language to convey important messages of inclusion and personal expression.

Meanwhile, over 30 participants from the agency’s other 10 centres are working on the Carnival float, which is being constructed at a warehouse in Floriana.

Costumes and props are being prepared by about 40 participants, using recycled materials. The float will be presented for the first time at this year’s Carnival.

Minister Farrugia emphasised the value of such projects in fostering creative expression, skill development, and active participation in national cultural events.

#MaltaDaily