The Department of Justice (DOJ) has dismissed the cyberlibel complaints filed by Senator Risa Hontiveros against several public personalities, including lawyer Ferdinand Topacio and social media commentators Byron “Banat By” Cristobal, Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz, Krizette “Kiffy” Chu, Jay Sonza, and Alex “Tio Moreno” Destor.
In a resolution dated December 22, 2025, a panel of government prosecutors concluded that there was no prima facie evidence that could lead to a reasonable certainty of conviction against the respondents. The decision effectively cleared them of the cyberlibel allegations filed by the senator.
The complaint stemmed from a video circulated on social media involving a Senate witness linked to the investigation of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy. In the video, the witness alleged that he was offered a bribe by Hontiveros in exchange for providing testimony. The respondents later shared and commented on the video through online platforms, expressing their opinions regarding the senator and the issue.
According to the resolution signed by Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Amanda Felipe and Prosecution Attorney Maria Fraulaine May Rapal, the respondents’ posts and commentaries were expressions of opinion connected to matters of public interest. The prosecutors emphasized that while some of the statements could be considered offensive, they do not automatically qualify as actionable offenses under cyberlibel laws.
The panel cited established legal principles, including Supreme Court rulings that highlight the importance of protecting free expression, especially when it involves public officials. The resolution noted that public servants are subject to criticism as part of democratic discourse, and limiting such expressions could discourage open discussions on matters affecting governance.
Furthermore, prosecutors pointed out that the element of actual malice — a key requirement in libel and cyberlibel cases involving public officials — was not sufficiently proven. They said there was no clear evidence showing that the respondents knowingly spread false information or acted with reckless disregard for the truth.
“It was not established that the defamatory statements were made with knowledge that the statements were false or with reckless disregard as to whether or not they were true,” the resolution stated.
Following the ruling, Topacio welcomed the DOJ’s decision, describing it as a reinforcement of the public’s right to express criticism toward government officials.
“The dismissal by the Department of Justice of cyberlibel charges against me made by Senator Risa Hontiveros is a vindication of the right of every media man and every citizen to legally and responsibly criticize public officials for perceived misconduct and venalities in office,” Topacio said.
The ruling highlights the balance between safeguarding reputation and protecting freedom of speech, particularly in discussions involving public figures and national issues.