NGO head sues military general for defamation

CEBU, Philippines — A leader of a non-government organization (NGO) and a member of the Community Empowerment Resource Network (CERNET) has filed a civil lawsuit against the commander of the Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade over alleged defamatory statements.

Estrella Flores-Catarata, also a psychologist, filed the lawsuit against Brigadier General Joey A. Escanillas over an alleged malicious statement linking her to communist insurgents.

The lawsuit stems from a press conference on April 30, 2024, where Escanillas publicly identified Flores-Catarata as a leader of the “Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).”

Flores-Catarata denied the accusations, noting that the complaint on Escanillas’ statements constituted defamation.

She said the statements significantly damaged her reputation, caused emotional distress, and raised concerns for her safety.

In her complaint, Flores-Catarata seeks damages against Escanillas in his personal capacity, citing violations under Articles 19, 20, 21, 26, and 33 of Republic Act 386, or the Civil Code of the Philippines.

She alleged that Escanillas’ statements, which labeled her and her organizations as “communist-terrorist” funders, constitute tortious acts infringing upon her rights and dignity.

Following Escanillas’ statements, the Cebu City Police Office amplified the accusations by posting on Facebook that Flores-Catarata was the “No. 1 Most Wanted Terrorist Financier in Central Visayas.”

Flores-Catarata, a licensed social worker and registered psychologist, emphasized that she has served for over two decades working with various NGOs and government agencies.

Previously, Escanillas filed a case against the Community Empowerment Resource Network (CERNET) and 27 individuals, including Flores-Catarata, for alleged violations of the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.

Flores-Catarata was implicated due to her former role as executive director of the Farmers Development Center (FARDEC), an organization affiliated with CERNET.

CERNET and its members have consistently denied the allegations, asserting that their work focuses on legitimate development initiatives for marginalized communities.

They argue that the charges are baseless and intended to stifle their advocacy efforts.

Human rights groups, including Karapatan, have condemned the charges as “malicious persecution” of development workers and human rights advocates.

Meanwhile, the United Nations has also expressed concern over the misuse of counter-terrorism laws in the Philippines.

Previous reports from The Freeman and Philstar noted that UN experts highlighted that the country’s red-tagging practices pose significant risks to human rights defenders and can lead to reputational harm and threats to their safety.

“There is already a dearth of professionals who choose to do development work. This is worsened due to the chilling effect of red-tagging. I am challenged to overcome my fear,” said Flores-Catarata. — (FREEMAN)