Solon files NBI complaint over PWD, LGBTQ+ online harassment

Akbayan Partylist Representative Percival Cendaña filed a complaint Tuesday with the Cybercrime Division of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), requesting an inquiry into social media influencers and content creators accused of mocking persons with disabilities and making homophobic attacks.

Cendaña, joined by 1PWD Partylist Representative JD Castro and disability rights advocates, requested the NBI to investigate at least 30 online accounts for violating the Magna Carta of Disabled Persons and the Safe Spaces Act.

The complaint specifically highlighted content posted by accounts operating under the names Cho Moreno, MP Miko Pogay and Kiffy Chu, urging investigators to identify the individuals behind them.

The lawmaker, a stroke survivor and openly gay man, said he has faced persistent online abuse, including attacks regarding his physical appearance.

He cited that the insults intensified after Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa publicly criticized him following Cendaña’s filing of an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte in 2024.

While Cendaña said he initially ignored personal insults, fellow advocacy group members urged him to take legal action to prevent the normalization of harassment against disabled individuals.

He stressed that while political debate and public scrutiny are expected in his role, personal attacks targeting disabilities cross the line into illegal discrimination.

The complaint asks the bureau to address broader online harassment, cyberbullying, and discrimination directed at the PWD community across digital platforms.