Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed cyberlibel complaints with the Department of Justice against seven individuals, including lawyer Ferdinand Topacio and social media figures, for allegedly spreading false information and attacking witnesses involved in investigations against former President Rodrigo Duterte and others.
One complaint names Michael Maurillo, also known as “Alias Rene,” while a second complaint includes Topacio, Bryon Cristobal (Banat By), Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz, Krizette “Kiffy” Chu, Jose “Jay” Sonza, and Alex Destor (Tio Moreno).
“This isn’t just fake news. It’s a coordinated attack against witnesses who bravely spoke the truth despite fear,” Hontiveros said during a press briefing.
She emphasized that the individuals targeted are now being silenced through disinformation campaigns. Hontiveros also criticized the viral video where Maurillo claimed he was forced to lie about Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte, and Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, labeling it as misleading and harmful.
Hontiveros said additional complaints may follow and accused the vloggers of spreading lies that undermine the Senate’s mandate. “No senator will allow this attack on our institution,” she said.
Some of the accused responded by framing the complaints as attacks on free speech. Destor insisted his post was a summary, not misinformation. Celiz called the case an act of intimidation.
Last week, Hontiveros also filed a separate complaint with the NBI, urging an investigation into the people behind the Pagtanggol Valiente account, which posted Maurillo’s video. She suspects the account may be a deliberate “fake news channel.”
While acknowledging the possibility that Maurillo remains a victim, Hontiveros said the video he released contained falsehoods that harm her and over a dozen other witnesses.
“I believe in free speech, but it doesn’t give anyone the right to spread lies that endanger others,” she concluded.