The Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested 32 individuals for online libel from January 1 to May 15, 2026, according to a report by Bombo John Flores. The PNP filed a total of 276 online libel cases during this period.
Details of Arrests and Cases
Data from the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) shows that those arrested face charges for violating Republic Act 10175, also known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. Under this law, penalties for online libel are heavier compared to traditional libel under the Revised Penal Code.
The PNP clarified that online libel refers to the malicious imputation of a crime, vice, or any act that could damage a person's honor or reputation using information and communication technology.
Operations and Enforcement
The arrests and filing of cases were carried out by special operating units of the PNP-ACG, together with regional, provincial, city, and district cyber response teams across the country.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that while social media is an important tool for communication, it comes with responsibility for every user. "Social media is a powerful instrument of communication, but it carries responsibility. The PNP will remain firm in enforcing the law while ensuring that everyone's rights are respected," Nartatez stated.
