Bea Alonzo forgives Cristy Fermin, cyber libel case withdrawal up for consideration
MANILA, Philippines — Bea Alonzo has agreed to continue mediations with entertainment journalist Cristy Fermin and two of her colleagues, all of whom the actress filed cyber libel cases against.
It can be recalled in mid-2024 that Bea filed the cases against Cristy and her "Showbiz Now Na" Wendell Alvarez and Romel "Chika" Villamor at the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office where Bea claimed she was the victim of "false, malicious and damaging information."
At the time Cristy welcomed the complaint, noting it was Bea's right, and stated she was only doing her duty as an entertainment reporter.
"Ikaw, Bea, ang nagsampa ng kasong libelo laban sa akin... ano ang ating sinasabi, we will see you in court!" Cristy said then.
Arrest warrants were released for Cristy, Wendell, and Romel Chika a year later as recommended by the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office, after which all three posted bail worth P48,000 each.
Apologies
Earlier this week on "Showbiz Now Na," Cristy gave an update on proceedings regarding the cyber libel case, sharing that all parties underwent a mediation.
According to Cristy, Bea aired her frustration during the discussion as the three hosts reiterated their stance as showbiz journalists.
Cristy said Bea accepted their reasons, and as she spoke a statement of public apology to Bea and her family was aired on the video.
"We deeply regret the unintendend and unfortunate consequences of our action, including the public persecution that Ms. Alonzo has endured," the three said, adding it was not their intention to defame, offend, or harm Bea in any way as they praised her character.
The three individuals said they would "cease and desist from any further commentary or content" that would put Bea in a negative light, thanking the actress for her willingness to achieve a resolution.
In the video proper, Cristy thanked Bea, her family, the actress' lawyers Attys. Jose Manolo Garcia and Orlie Elauria from Garcia Elauria Ruanto & Associates, and their own legal representatives Attys. Ferdinand Topacio, Raph Andrada, and Shirley Mae Tabangcura.
RELATED: 'Hindi nagpapagamit': Cristy Fermin praises Bea Alonzo over Vice Ganda joke
Forgiveness
Following the video, Bea issued a statement through her lawyers confirming that everyone involved went through a mediation.
"This decision is neither an act of retreat nor concession. Rather, it is an act of resolve, anchored in forgiveness. Upon deep reflection, Ms. Alonzo has chosen to forgive," the statement read, adding that Bea did so out of strength and to "free herself from a cycle of harm and hostility."
The statement continued by saying Bea sees the move as an opportunity to end this chapter and to instead focus on her work, advocacies, and "her role as a woman who uplifts others, particularly those navigating their own silent battles."
"We ask that this moment be seen for what it truly is. Not merely an ending, but a powerful expression of emotional maturity, personal growth & courage," the statement ended.
There was no clear indication as to whether Bea withdrew her charges against the three showbiz hosts but these developments point to the issue heading in that direction.
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