NBI Dir Santiago confirms cartoon video, resigns over extortion

Former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago confirmed the circulation of a cartoon video depicting him reprimanding senior NBI officials.

The animated video, based on an audio recording from a closed-door meeting, shows Santiago scolding officials for alleged misconduct and protecting the NBI's reputation.

Santiago tendered his resignation to President Marcos on Aug. 15 amid allegations that he was linked to extortion by an NBI collector.

He accused senior officials of orchestrating complaints against him to damage his reputation, similar to smear campaigns used against his predecessor Medardo de Lemos.

A vlogger named Banat By will be investigated for allegedly misquoting Santiago in a Facebook post, which the director denied ever making.

Santiago directed the NBI cybercrime division to probe Banat By as part of his final actions before leaving office, emphasizing the need to combat fake news on social media.