Social media personality and food entrepreneur Diwata Pares recently found herself at the center of controversy after being arrested over alleged business non-compliance issues. The arrest, which reportedly happened around 6:00 p.m., led to the entrepreneur spending the entire night in detention, drawing widespread attention from supporters and followers online.
According to initial reports, the complaint was filed by a government agency citing alleged violations of business regulations. Authorities served a warrant of arrest, which resulted in the immediate custody of the viral food vendor known for attracting large crowds to the popular pares business. The incident marks another legal challenge for Diwata, who has previously faced regulatory concerns related to operations.
Diwata expressed frustration over the manner of the arrest, claiming that no prior subpoena was received before the warrant was issued. The entrepreneur argued that the lack of notice prevented any opportunity to clarify or resolve the concerns raised by authorities before the situation escalated into an arrest. The issue of due process has since sparked discussions among followers and netizens, with many questioning whether proper procedures were followed.
To secure temporary release, Diwata was required to post a bail amount of ₱60,000. The entrepreneur described the amount as a heavy financial burden, especially as the business continues to struggle with ongoing legal and operational challenges. In a candid statement, Diwata admitted that personal funds have already been used to sustain daily business operations, highlighting the difficulties faced by small entrepreneurs navigating government compliance requirements.
The incident has also raised broader conversations about the challenges experienced by small and growing businesses in complying with regulatory standards. Business experts often stress the importance of securing proper permits, licenses, and documentation to avoid penalties or legal complications. However, some entrepreneurs argue that navigating complex regulatory systems can be overwhelming, particularly for businesses that experience rapid growth through social media exposure.
Despite the setback, Diwata has remained vocal about plans to continue operating the business while addressing legal concerns. Supporters have expressed encouragement online, while others have called for transparency and accountability from both business owners and regulatory agencies involved.
As the case develops, it remains unclear what specific compliance violations were cited in the complaint or how the legal proceedings will unfold. For now, the situation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between business expansion, regulatory compliance, and the legal responsibilities entrepreneurs must meet while building a brand in the digital age.