The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) held a press conference on 6 May regarding the warrantless arrest of Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN) founder Franco Mabanta over alleged extortion in connection with violations of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

According to NBI Director Melvin Matibag, if probable cause is established, the case will be elevated for trial before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Pasig.

“We will look into the phones and accounts that were mentioned. In the meantime, we will file a case against those apprehended, and once elevated to the court, it will be recommended for the RTC in Pasig,” Matibag said.

Meanwhile, a representative of Martin Romualdez revealed that the alleged extortion scheme dated back to last year, with the demand escalating to P350 million just two weeks ago.

“[They said that] if it is not settled by 5 May, they will release part one of the video. They already sent a teaser [previously], showing the complainant, and the content of the publication is damaging,” the representative said in Filipino.

The representative also said the suspect was apprehended for allegedly demanding and extorting P75 million, which Mabanta reportedly attempted to place inside a newly purchased suitcase.

“There was even a discussion of P300 million, take it or leave it, until it escalated to the entrapment operation yesterday,” the representative added.

An NBI agent said Mabanta was arrested after authorities followed his alleged accomplice, who was tracked to Valle Verde Country Club in Pasig and apprehended after reportedly receiving the marked money during the operation.

“He provided the address. When the money was handed over, we did not arrest the one who received it because they were not the person we were dealing with. We followed where the money was brought, and the subject [Franco Mabanta] was also there,” the agent said.

Matibag also said cyber warrants are being considered to investigate and examine individuals linked to the alleged crime.

“We will proceed with caution and ensure fairness in handling these cases,” Matibag said.

The NBI director added that the bureau investigates crimes, not opinions, stressing that authorities will act on the case at hand, which used social media as a tool to gain financial aid through illegal means.

“The use of social media to gain financial benefit through extortion is something we will counter,” Matibag said.

The NBI chief added that the investigation is ongoing and that authorities are not disclosing the relationship among those arrested at this time, adding that the individuals involved are not connected.