Lawmakers warn resource persons on contempt raps

Lawmakers have warned that resource persons participating in the House Tri-Comm probe on misinformation and disinformation could face contempt charges if they attack or insult the inquiry or its members.

Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano of Abang Lingkod party-list cited Section 11, Paragraph F of the House's internal rules, stating that such actions after a hearing suspension would be a violation, potentially leading to a contempt citation for undue interference.

Paduano recalled a past instance where a blocktimer from a Cagayan radio station was cited for contempt due to attacking a committee hearing's outcomes.

House Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V asserted that the third hearing on 'fake news' was conducted fairly, even though some resource persons became emotional and offered apologies.

During the hearing last Friday, vloggers Krizette Chu and Mary Jean Quiambao Reyes were questioned by lawmakers regarding their social media posts.