Iloilo city: Iloilo City Lone District Representative Julienne Baronda has initiated cyberlibel and perjury charges against 18 former Philippine Marines and lawyer Levito Baligod at the National Prosecution Service of the Department of Justice.

According to Philippines News Agency, besides Baligod, the complaints, lodged on Wednesday afternoon, include Bernard Tube, Rosebert Waupan, Benny Bulontate, Johnny Buduan, Rodante Orbillo, Reyneboy Julian, Christopher Esquivel, George Villalon Jr., Romeo Rommel Bobares, Gil Navidad Jr., Anselmo Taberdo, Jowly Cadiao, Rommel Galapon, Cecilio Larroder Jr., Bernard Gumban, Crisaniel Dado, Fidel Corpu, and Walter Manalansan as respondents. The charges are based on violations of Section 4(c)(4) of Republic Act 10175, known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, and perjury under Article 183 of the Revised Penal Code.

In her affidavit, Baronda stated that an unsigned affidavit distributed by Baligod contained allegations accusing the President of the Philippines, several public officials, and members of Congress of receiving substantial sums of money allegedly delivered by the respondents. The 18 individuals reportedly acted as escorts, couriers, or security personnel, transporting and delivering luggage to government officials and lawmakers.

Baronda emphasized that she was explicitly identified in the affidavit as a recipient of luggage supposedly containing cash. "The accusation was direct and unequivocal. By naming me as one of the persons who allegedly received luggage containing cash, the respondents effectively accused me of receiving illicit funds and participating in unlawful activities. The defamatory nature of the accusation is clear," she stated.

In her statement, Baronda expressed that she did not make the decision to file complaints lightly, acknowledging that public service involves scrutiny and criticism. However, she clarified that the case is not about criticism or political disagreement but about the deliberate use of false and malicious accusations of criminal conduct against her. The allegations were presented as facts under oath and widely disseminated.

Baronda concluded by asserting that she filed the complaint to defend the truth, protect the integrity of public service, and hold accountable those who abused the solemnity of an oath to spread falsehoods.