Abante asks NBI to probe social media posts

Manila 6th District Representative Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. asked the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Friday to track down individuals spreading false and defamatory statements against him on social media, warning that those responsible face cyberlibel charges.

Speaking to reporters at the NBI headquarters, Abante said he has tolerated criticisms in the past but decided to seek law enforcement intervention after online posts turned malicious and personal.

“I’ve been very kind to those who are actually attacking me,” Abante said. “But when it goes below the belt, it really needs to be examined closely.”

The online allegations attempted to link the lawmaker — who is a pastor and plays golf — to a media column’s blind item claiming a pastor was banned from golf courses in Antipolo City for inappropriately touching women.

The columnist later clarified that the item did not refer to Abante.

“This is getting out of hand. I don’t play golf in Antipolo, and I have nothing to do with that,” Abante said, noting that the online harassment campaign has been ongoing for more than a week.

Abante submitted links to the social media accounts and videos to the NBI to preserve digital evidence and unmask the vloggers and content creators operating behind them.

“These fake news are not right,” Abante said. “If you are angry at me and want to say things against me, be truthful about it.”

Abante added that he cannot yet determine the motive behind the attacks or if political rivals are involved, stating he prefers to let NBI investigators establish the facts before making accusations.