The legal confrontation between Leyte Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Franco Mabanta, founder of the Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN), is heating up as Romualdez's camp asserts confidence in their case. They claim to possess compelling evidence in an ongoing robbery extortion lawsuit.
The Allegations and Legal Proceedings
The case revolves around accusations that Mabanta threatened to release a damaging video report linking Romualdez to a flood control scandal unless he received P350 million, later negotiated down to P300 million. This alleged demand led to Mabanta's arrest along with four others by National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents.
We cannot speak of the details of the case since it is already the subject of ongoing proceedings, but what we can say right now is that we are confident in the strength of our case and our evidence.
Elaine Atienza, Counsel for Romualdez
- Romualdez's camp believes they have solid evidence.
- The NBI arrested Mabanta and four others during an entrapment operation.
Elaine Atienza, Romualdez's lawyer, emphasized the importance of judicial processes, stating, "The court is the proper forum where we can test this evidence. We respect the court process and we trust that the court will view this matter fairly."
Atienza further clarified that their actions are not an attempt to stifle press freedom, urging individuals to report grievances through appropriate channels.
Reactions From PGMN
In response, CJ Hirro, a colleague of Mabanta at PGMN, accused Romualdez of using online troll farms to intimidate critics. Hirro questioned the authenticity of Romualdez's public support, suggesting a lack of genuine popularity.
Taas kamay sa naniniwalang walang troll farm ang kampo ni Martin Romualdez na ginagamit niya sa lahat ng kalaban niya.
CJ Hirro, PGMN Anchor
The NBI has identified Hirro as a person of interest in the ongoing investigation, and his legal representation has confirmed compliance with subpoenas issued by the agency.