Ressa, Talabong arraigned for cyber libel over CSB corruption report

Rappler CEO Maria Ressa and reporter Rambo Talabong were arraigned on Tuesday before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 24 for one count of cyber libel.

The case stems from Talabong’s investigative story about alleged corruption at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, where students reportedly paid to pass their thesis subject.

Judge Maria Victoria Soriano Villadolid entered a not guilty plea on behalf of Ressa and Talabong as they did not enter pleas themselves.

The complainant is faculty member Ariel Pineda, who was accused by students of accepting bribes.

Talabong’s story was based on a documented complaint filed with the school against Pineda.