Online trolls target Quezon City judge

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City judge who issued the arrest warrant against Vice President Sara Duterte is now being targeted by trolls online.

Videos and images of Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 98 Judge Maria Angelica De Ramos are circulating on social media platforms, including Facebook pages dedicated to supporters of the Vice President.

Several posts have already drawn thousands of angry reactions, with many comments specifically targeting and disparaging the judge.

In addition to baseless allegations of corruption, trolls have also commented on the judge’s appearance and supposed ties with President Marcos.

Duterte’s allies and supporters, including former Commission on Elections commissioner Rowena Guanzon, have repeatedly pointed out that it was Marcos who appointed De Ramos to her post.

Members of the judiciary, despite being appointed by the executive, commit to independence and impartiality in carrying out their duties.

Under the existing process for judicial appointments, the President makes the appointment based on the shortlist submitted by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC), an independent body that screens and vets nominees for vacant positions in the judiciary and other legal offices.

Records showed that De Ramos was among seven nominees shortlisted by the JBC for Branch 98 in July 2024. She was appointed in March 2025.

Security tightened

Police have tightened security in Metro Manila in anticipation of possible rallies by Duterte supporters.

Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano, National Capital Region Police Office director, said they have a contingency plan in place should Duterte’s supporters go on the streets to protest the cases against the Vice President. — Emmanuel Tupas