NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
MANIBELA Denounces Complaint By DOTr Chief
Photo credit: Ucajoda - Manibela
In response to the recent cyber libel complaint filed by Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista against MANIBELA Chairperson Mar Valbuena and journalist Ira Panganiban, the organization released an official statement today, labeling the accusations as an act of harassment and abuse of power.
In the statement, MANIBELA reiterated its “commitment to defending the public interest and transparency” addressing the allegations made by Secretary Bautista.
The organization claimed that the case is an attempt to silence them, likening their situation to that of a whistleblower seeking to expose the truth.
"We are ready to face all accusations against us. This will not deter us from uncovering the truth and allowing the investigation to proceed. Our resolve to assist the transportation sector and commuters remains unshaken. What they protect is their self-interest, but what we protect is the interest of the people," read the statement in part.
The cyber libel complaint, filed on October 17, 2023, stems from alleged defamatory statements made online by MANIBELA Chairperson Mar Valbuena and journalist Ira Panganiban.
MANIBELA, a prominent transportation advocacy group, has been vocal about various issues within the transportation sector, often highlighting concerns of commuters and drivers.
In the statement, MANIBELA reiterated its “commitment to defending the public interest and transparency” addressing the allegations made by Secretary Bautista.
The organization claimed that the case is an attempt to silence them, likening their situation to that of a whistleblower seeking to expose the truth.
"We are ready to face all accusations against us. This will not deter us from uncovering the truth and allowing the investigation to proceed. Our resolve to assist the transportation sector and commuters remains unshaken. What they protect is their self-interest, but what we protect is the interest of the people," read the statement in part.
The cyber libel complaint, filed on October 17, 2023, stems from alleged defamatory statements made online by MANIBELA Chairperson Mar Valbuena and journalist Ira Panganiban.
MANIBELA, a prominent transportation advocacy group, has been vocal about various issues within the transportation sector, often highlighting concerns of commuters and drivers.
Oct 18, 2023
