Sen. Hontiveros files cyber libel raps vs ex-Senate witness

Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed cyber libel complaints against Michael Maurilio, a former Senate witness in the probe against detained preacher Apollo Quiboloy, for alleging that the senator paid and coerced him to testify.

The complaints were submitted to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Wednesday, July 2.

Hontiveros stated that based on her lawyers' advice, cyber libel was the appropriate charge.

She emphasized that while she is open to criticism, she will not tolerate dangerous lies.

Hontiveros added that the disinformation campaign targeted not only her but also witnesses, her staff, and the Senate itself.

The senator also intends to unmask the producers and identify vloggers who allegedly amplified and spread disinformation through viral videos.

Named in the original complaint were Krizette Chu, Jay Sonza, Sass Rogando Sasot, Trixie Cruz-Angeles, Banat By, and other content creators.

So far, a dozen individuals have been charged, with the possibility of more depending on the NBI's investigation.