In the latest twist of showbiz intrigue, actor Dominic Roque has taken legal action against entertainment commentator Cristy Fermin for alleged cyber libel. Roque filed the criminal case at the Office of the City Prosecutor in Pasig City, as reported by Nelson Canlas.
The catalyst for Roque’s legal move, according to Canlas, stemmed from what he described as “malicious statements and innuendos” made by Fermin on her YouTube channel, ‘Showbiz Now Na’.
Fermin, when reached for comment by GMA News Online, expressed her surprise at the development, mentioning she was informed about the case through messages from GMA. She maintained her stance that it was Roque’s right to file such a case and stated she would wait for the subpoena.
Acknowledging the ongoing legal process, Fermin drew a parallel with another recent incident involving actress Bea Alonzo, who also filed a cyber libel case against Fermin, Ogie Diaz, and their co-hosts earlier in the month.
Bea Alonzo’s complaint affidavit, mirroring Roque’s concerns, highlighted the dissemination of false, malicious, and damaging information without basis, allegedly originating from sources claiming proximity to her. This information was purportedly discussed on Fermin’s and Diaz’s online platforms.
The legal recourse taken by Roque and Alonzo reflects an increasing trend of celebrities asserting their rights against perceived online defamation within the entertainment industry. The case underscores the complexities and potential consequences of commentary and gossip in the digital age, especially when it intersects with public figures’ reputations and livelihoods.
Nagsampa ng cyber libel case ang aktor na si Dominic Roque laban kay Cristy Fermin sa Officr of the City Prosecutor ng Pasig City.
— Nelson Canlas (@nelsoncanlas) May 31, 2024
Ang ilang malicious statements and innuendos na sinabi ni Fermin sa kanyang Youtube channel ang naging basehan ng aktor para magsampa ng kaso. pic.twitter.com/GrWue0nOsH
As both parties await the legal proceedings to unfold, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible journalism and commentary, particularly in an era where social media amplifies the impact of every statement made online. It also raises questions about the boundaries of free speech and the accountability of online personalities for the content they disseminate.