MANILA, Philippines– The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines has filed inciting to sedition charges against former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and vlogger Claire Contreras, also known as Maharlika.
The charges were filed with the Department of Justice (DOJ) following the circulation of a video online.
The video allegedly showed a man resembling President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. using a white powdery substance.
This incident coincided with President Marcos Jr.’s 2024 State of the Nation Address.
NBI Director Jaime Santiago stated that the NBI-Cybercrime Division initiated the case against Roque and Contreras.
The NBI investigation included digital forensics and alleged an intent to discredit the President through the video’s dissemination.
Aside from inciting to sedition, Claire Contreras faces additional charges.
These additional charges include unlawful publication, cyber libel, and computer-related forgery.
The NBI also filed charges against other individuals involved in spreading fake news.
These individuals face charges related to the unlawful publication regarding misinformation about former President Rodrigo Duterte’s supposed arrest.
Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon received the transmittal letter of the charges on April 14.
The DOJ is now responsible for evaluating the charges and proceeding with the appropriate legal actions.