Prosecutor’s office dismisses Athena Imperial’s complaint vs ex-colleague Nico Waje

MANILA, Philippines (Updated August 22, 8:47 a.m.) — A complaint filed by GMA reporter Athena Imperial against her former colleague Nico Waje for acts of lasciviousness and violation of the Safe Spaces Act has been recommended for dismissal by the public prosecutor.

A copy of the resolution was shared by Waje’s wife, Leinel Waje, with GMA News Online.

The resolution recommends the dismissal of the complaint for acts of lasciviousness under Article 336 of the Revised Penal Code, as well as the complaint for violation of Section 16(c), Article IV of Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act.

The dismissal is not a court ruling. The parties may still avail themselves of remedies provided under the rules, including the filing of a motion for reconsideration.

“We are pleased that, after due proceedings, Mr. Waje has been fully vindicated of these charges,” said lawyer Leo Lalusis, Waje’s lead counsel.

“We are likewise grateful for the prompt and judicious resolution of the honorable public prosecutor. We remain hopeful that any other pending matters will be resolved accordingly,” he added.

As of writing, Imperial has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the dismissal of her complaint.

The development comes months after the Kapuso news reporter acknowledged in May 2026 that filing the case against her colleague had not been an easy decision for her.

The case stemmed from allegations raised by Imperial against Waje. The prosecutor’s resolution recommends the dismissal of the complaints covered by the proceedings, subject to any remedies that may still be pursued by the parties.

RELATED: GMA reporter Athena Imperial sues ex-colleague Nico Waje for acts of lasciviousness

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly reported that a court had dismissed the complaint filed by GMA reporter Athena Imperial against former colleague Nico Waje. The dismissal was made by the public prosecutor, not a court. This has been corrected.