Franco Mabanta, the founder of the Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN), was arrested on May 6, 2026, for alleged extortion against Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) reported that Mabanta demanded P300 million from Romualdez, promising to withhold the release of video content that allegedly implicated the congressman in corruption.
The NBI's operations involved undercover agents who arranged a meeting with Mabanta at The Manila Peninsula Hotel on May 5, where he reiterated his demand.
During the operation, Mabanta instructed the agents to deliver the initial payment of P75 million at Valle Verde Country Club in Pasig City.
Upon delivering the money, NBI operatives apprehended Mabanta along with two accomplices. The agents recovered the entrapment cash and mobile phones used for coordination.
Freedom of expression is protected by law, but it must never be used as a shield for extortion, intimidation, or criminal exploitation. The NBI will relentlessly pursue those who weaponize digital platforms to threaten, harass, and unlawfully profit from others.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag
Mabanta, previously known for his social media strategies for the Marcos family, claimed that the entire operation was a setup aimed at harming him.
He alleged that he had received warnings about threats to his safety prior to the arrest.
As of now, Mabanta and his associates remain in NBI custody while further proceedings are underway.