NBI files raps vs Cebu vlogger over ‘fake news’

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation yesterday filed criminal complaints against a Cebu-based vlogger for allegedly spreading false and misleading information about NBI Director Jaime Santiago’s remarks concerning overseas Filipino workers.

The vlogger, identified as Mary Joy dela Cerna Lacierda, posted a video on social media showing Santiago holding a microphone with the caption: “Bagong pananakot sa mga OFW.”

The NBI said the post misrepresented Santiago’s statements, creating the false impression that he was threatening OFWs.

Santiago clarified that his comments were directed at vloggers, whether based abroad or in the Philippines, who have pending legal cases.

“I was interviewed about vloggers. I said, for those abroad, if they come back and still have warrants, we will arrest them. Those here will also be arrested once charges are filed,” he said, referring to a media forum in Manila earlier this month.

The video post had 58,000 views and sparked outrage online, including calls to stop sending remittances.

Santiago said the distortion of his remarks led to unwarranted public anger.

“Now I’m being accused of threatening OFWs. Those who don’t know the real story became angry,” he said. “They’re saying, ‘No more remittances, let’s not support the government.’ That’s inciting to sedition.”

The NBI said Lacierda was charged for unlawful use of means of publication and unlawful utterances, as well as inciting to sedition under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.