De Lima and Fr. Flavie File Formal Complaints with NBI Over Allegations
In a significant legal move, Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila De Lima and Fr. Flavie Villanueva have personally visited the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to file formal complaints against 18 former soldiers and attorney Atty. Levito Baligod. The complaints, submitted on March 9, 2026, specifically allege libel and cyber-libel in response to damaging accusations made by the group.
Allegations and Denials
According to Rep. De Lima, the complaints stem from what she describes as defamatory statements aimed at tarnishing her reputation. The controversy centers on a joint-affidavit from the group, which claims that De Lima received a paper bag containing millions of pesos in cash. She has vehemently denied these allegations, labeling them as falsehoods designed to smear her name.
Fr. Flavie Villanueva emphasized that their action is a stand against the smear campaign orchestrated by the accused. He stated that filing the complaints is a necessary step to uphold truth and integrity in public discourse.
Additional Legal Actions at the Department of Justice
Following the NBI filing, De Lima and Villanueva proceeded directly to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to lodge a separate case. At the DOJ, they filed a perjury complaint against the 18 former soldiers who signed the joint-affidavit, which was recently submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman.
Rep. De Lima also addressed another allegation in the affidavit, which suggested she met with former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. She dismissed this claim as another fabrication, reiterating her denial of receiving any paper bag as described in the group's statements.
Implications and Next Steps
This legal action highlights ongoing tensions in Philippine politics and the use of legal avenues to combat perceived defamation. The NBI and DOJ are now tasked with investigating the complaints, which could lead to further legal proceedings. The case underscores the challenges public figures face in maintaining their reputations amid controversial allegations.
As the investigations unfold, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the justice system handles these high-profile complaints. The outcome may set precedents for how similar cases are addressed in the future, particularly involving cyber-libel and perjury charges.
