Vlogger Francis Leo Marcos Arrested Over Unjust Vexation Charges by Fellow Influencer
In a dramatic media presentation on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, vlogger Francis Leo Marcos, whose real name is Norman Mangusin, was arrested and brought before the press. The arrest stemmed from charges filed by fellow vlogger Mark Jayson Warnakulahewa, widely known online as Makagago, leading to a heated confrontation between the two during the event.
Charges and Arrest Details
Warnakulahewa filed 12 counts of unjust vexation against Mangusin, alleging disrespectful remarks directed at his wife and mother. The arrest warrant, issued by the Parañaque Regional Trial Court, was executed while Mangusin was dining at a hotel in Pasay City. Bail was set at P120,000, highlighting the severity of the charges.
During the press conference, National Police Commission (Napolcom) vice chairperson and executive officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan oversaw the proceedings, which quickly escalated into a short but intense exchange between Mangusin and Warnakulahewa. This public showdown underscored the personal nature of the dispute.
Additional Allegations and Investigations
Beyond the unjust vexation charges, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-National Capital Region chief Colonel John Guiagui revealed that multiple complaints have been lodged against Mangusin for alleged scams. Guiagui emphasized that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), motivated by a desire to help struggling compatriots, have been particularly susceptible to Mangusin's persuasive communication style.
Guiagui stated, "Our OFWs, because of their desire to help our fellow Filipinos—knowing that many Filipinos are suffering—are being drawn in by Mangusin, because the way he speaks is very appealing." He added that investigations into estafa (fraud) allegations are ongoing, with numerous complainants coming forward in the National Capital Region.
Controversies and Public Response
Mangusin is also facing scrutiny for allegedly disrespecting the police uniform, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other government officials. He has previously claimed to be a close relative of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., adding a layer of political intrigue to the case.
In response to his arrest and public humiliation, Mangusin criticized the officials involved, arguing that the charges were exaggerated. He said, "It’s just unjust vexation, yet if you humiliate me before the entire Philippines as if I had killed someone. What you’re calling estafa has been talked about since 2020—many have said that already, but nothing ever came of it—and yet you humiliate me on national TV."
The case continues to unfold, with authorities pledging to pursue further investigations into the scam allegations while the legal process for the unjust vexation charges moves forward.
