Jim Paredes apologizes for viral video

MANILA, Philippines — Singer and STAR lifestyle columnist Jim Paredes has apologized over a sex video that was leaked on social media over the weekend.

In a blogpost dated April 1, Paredes confirmed the authenticity of the video, which he said is private and not meant for public consumption.

“I know many of you have judged me and condemned me, and those who held me in high esteem are disappointed in me, to put it mildly. I apologize for my irresponsibility,” he wrote.

“But most especially, I stand in bottomless sorrow and contrition before my family who are reeling from the hurt and aggravation, and the embarrassment and shame, that should only be mine. I pray that they be spared any more wicked trolling by those who would revel in their pain,” he added.

A vocal critic of the government, Paredes linked to politics the release of his private video.

“I can only surmise that in this ugly season of toxic politics, muckrakers determined to neutralize my influence by violating my privacy and digging up dirt on me are at work,” he said.

“When I saw it on social media, I was in a quandary how to respond. But after mulling and praying over it, I decided to come clean. There are already too many lies and liars in this world. I do not wish to be a part of that cabal,” he added.

The singer, who has since put his Twitter profile on private, described himself as irresponsible and admitted committing a mistake.

“I have never tried to project myself as perfect. Of all the sins in this world, I believe sex is the most human of all. I am not saying this to excuse what, I regret, was broadcast on social media. I have always expressed my feelings freely,” said the singer.

“Today, I wish to express my truth. I am a flawed person, a human being, much like everyone else. I made a mistake, I was irresponsible. And I am truly sorry,” he added.

Republic Act 9995 or the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009 prohibits taking of photo or recording videos of persons performing sexual acts or any similar activities without the consent of the persons involved and under circumstances in which they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

The sale, reproduction and distribution of such photos or videos are also prohibited.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is ready to assist Paredes if he seeks help on who circulated his sex video on social media platforms.

PNP spokesman Col. Bernard Banac said they are ready to investigate the matter to determine who posted Paredes’ sensitive video on social media.

Paredes, a critic of President Duterte, admitted he was the same person in the controversial video that went viral.

According to Banac, Paredes has yet to file a formal complaint with the police.

Banac also advised the public to be responsible citizens by not sharing Paredes’ video on social media. With Emmanuel Tupas