PCO lauds NBI arrest of Jay Sonza

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Friday lauded the arrest of former broadcaster-turned social media personality Jay Sonza, commending the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for its prompt action.

Sonza was arrested Thursday night by NBI operatives at his residence in Quezon City on the strength of a warrant issued by the Pasay City Regional Trial Court Branch 118. The arrest is linked to criminal charges stemming from his alleged social media posts containing false medical information about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

In a statement, PCO Acting Secretary Dave Gomez said the NBI’s actions under Director Atty. Melvin Matibag reflect the administration’s firm and lawful response to alleged online abuse, particularly the spread of false information presented as legitimate news.

“It shows the government’s continuing effort to guard the truth, protect the public from deception, and preserve a free but responsible democratic space,” Gomez said.

He added that the PCO’s Oplan Kontra Fake News sends a strong warning against the spread of misinformation.

“Misinformation undermines public trust, endangers lives, and will be met with swift, lawful consequences.”

“We will continue to work with law enforcement, the media, and responsible online platforms to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who disseminate falsehoods. Public discourse must remain free, but it must also be truthful, fair, and orderly. Speak freely, but not falsely,” he added.

The PCO recently signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Justice and the Department of Information and Communications Technology aimed at curbing the spread of fake news and holding those responsible accountable.

It has also submitted several cases to the DOJ for investigation by the NBI and possible prosecution.

The NBI said Sonza is charged with unlawful use of means of publication and unlawful utterances under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code in relation to Republic Act 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Sonza, known for the 1990s television program “Mel and Jay” with broadcaster Mel Tiangco, will remain in NBI custody over the long weekend as 1 May is a public holiday.

Matibag said the bureau will coordinate with the court on Monday to determine whether Sonza may post bail, even as the arrest warrant indicates the cybercrime-related offense is non-bailable.