Melvin Matibag is again using the machinery of the state in a case centered on free speech, this time targeting Reina Mercedes, Isabela Vice Mayor Jeryll Harold Respicio over remarks posted on social media.
The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center filed complaints before the NBI on Friday, May 22, over Respicio’s alleged “seditious statements” on social media. CICC Executive Director Renato “Aboy” Paraiso and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Precious Hipolito-Castelo led the filing.
Paraiso said the complaints being considered include inciting sedition, inciting rebellion, unlawful use of means of publication and unlawful utterances. Matibag said the NBI would issue a subpoena to Respicio as part of its case buildup before making a recommendation and possibly filing a complaint before the Department of Justice.
Matibag cited a transcription in which Respicio allegedly asked an audience whether they were willing to revolt.
“Ito ang tanong na seryoso, kapag hindi na gumagana ang foundational principle ng ating Constitution na demokrasya, ano ang sagot? Rebolusyon,” Matibag said, quoting Respicio’s alleged remarks.
Matibag claimed the elements of the alleged crimes were present, saying “pasok lahat.” He added that Respicio could also face disbarment because he is a lawyer.
“All our rights come with corresponding responsibilities,” Matibag said.
In response, Respicio fired off a furious remark against Matibag, calling him “a f**king large piece of s**t.”
This follows Matibag’s actions against free speech and free press involving PGMN, whose founder and CEO Franco Mabanta, along with four associates, were accused in an extortion plot orchestrated by former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
The same state machinery now being used against Respicio is the same machinery used to punish PGMN for preparing to expose corruption involving Romualdez, the most corrupt politician of the 21st century.
