Probe sought into threats vs impeachment prosecutor
MANILA, Philippines — Digital advocates have called on the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to launch a thorough investigation into online threats directed at impeachment prosecutor Rep. Terry Ridon (Bicol-SARO).
In a statement calling on the CICC on Thursday, July 9, Digital Pinoys national campaigner Ronald Gustilo urged the CICC for immediate intervention after Ridon received a threatening message through a popular messaging app.
The message reportedly originated from a Facebook Messenger account under the name "Ton Celestial," who was later identified as an incumbent councilor of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat.
He threatened to punch Ridon in the face.
"While we should respect where people stand regarding the impeachment proceedings, threatening an impeachment prosecutor, or anyone else for that matter, is unacceptable. What's more deplorable is that the threat came from a government official. This kind of action should not be tolerated,” Gustilo said.
“The deactivation of the Facebook account after the alleged threat surfaced should not stop authorities from conducting a thorough investigation. Digital evidence can still be preserved and examined through the proper legal channels. If there is a basis to believe that a violation of the law has been committed, those responsible must be held accountable,” he added.
Gustilo also reminded public officials of their digital conduct, reminding elected leaders that they are expected to serve as role models for law-abiding and respectful behavior online.
“The rule of law applies equally to everyone. Public office does not exempt anyone from accountability, especially when actions taken online may constitute criminal offenses. We trust that the CICC will investigate and take appropriate action based on the evidence,” Gustilo said.
In a message to Philstar.com, Ridon said that he will ask the CICC to look into the incident in order for criminal charges to be filed.
“We will also ask the DILG to look into the matter and preventively suspend Mr Celestial pending ongoing investigations, as LGU officials commit misconduct if they make criminal threats against others while holding public office,” Ridon told Philstar.com.
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