Razon files cyberlibel case vs Barzaga over bribery claims

Business tycoon Enrique Razon has filed a cyberlibel complaint against Kiko Barzaga over alleged false statements posted on the lawmaker’s social media account.

Razon’s counsel, Laurence Arroyo, said the complaint stems from Barzaga’s Facebook post dated January 9, in which the solon accused members of the National Unity Party (NUP) of receiving bribes from Razon.

Arroyo said the basis of the complaint is their position that the statements made were false and malicious.

Barzaga, for his part, said he is prepared to answer the allegations in court. “I will face him in court,” Barzaga said.

House Deputy Speaker and NUP chairman Ronaldo Puno earlier said the party would also file charges against Barzaga, a former NUP member.

Puno described the allegations as baseless, reckless, and malicious. “We will see him in court, since he chose to malign all members of the NUP—a party once led by his own father and one that he himself joined," Puno said.

Barzaga has previously maintained that his allegations have merit, adding that he would reveal evidence once he returns to Congress.