Showbiz columnist and host Cristy Fermin has lost the cyber libel case filed against her by former senator Kiko Pangilinan and actress Sharon Cuneta. Fermin confirmed the outcome of her program, “Cristy Ferminute,” which airs on One PH.
“Natalo ako sa kasong isinampa nina Kiko Pangilinan at Sharon Cuneta. Ang laban ay hindi natin uurungan,” Fermin stated, suggesting that she remains undeterred despite the court ruling.
The case was filed by the Pangilinan-Cuneta couple on May 10, 2024, following their decision to pursue legal action over Fermin’s alleged “baseless” and “malicious” statements about their personal and family issues. These remarks broadcasted through Fermin’s platforms, prompted the couple to take the issue to court.
According to a report from GMA News correspondent Nelson Canlas, Pangilinan and Cuneta personally appeared at the Makati City Prosecutors Office to formally file the complaint against Fermin. One of the major claims made by Fermin included a supposed “malaking hidwaan” between Sharon and her daughter, KC Concepcion. Fermin linked this conflict to the disappearance of a “mahalagang bagay” that Sharon had entrusted to KC, which allegedly vanished while in the actress’s possession.
Pangilinan, in a statement regarding the case, emphasized that while they are public figures, they still have rights. “Yes, we are public figures, but we also have rights. Andaming nagsasabi, kapag public figure kayo, tiisin niyo yung mga pagsisinungaling at paninira, but that’s not the case,” the former senator said, clarifying that they would not tolerate false accusations aimed at damaging their family.
This case is part of a series of libel cases that Fermin has faced, underscoring the legal consequences of statements made on social media and broadcast platforms. It also highlights the responsibilities of media personalities when commenting on the personal lives of public figures.
While this legal battle has ended in favor of Pangilinan and Cuneta, Fermin has expressed her determination to continue standing her ground and defending her side of the story. The outcome raises questions about the boundaries between free speech and defamation, especially in the entertainment industry.