Sen. Risa Hontiveros Files Cyberlibel Case vs Ex-Senate Witness, 6 Vloggers Over False Quiboloy Claims

Senator Risa Hontiveros has formally filed a cyberlibel complaint against Michael Maurilio, a former Senate witness, over allegedly defamatory statements made against her in relation to the Senate's ongoing investigation into the alleged crimes of controversial religious leader Apollo Quiboloy.

The complaint was lodged before the Department of Justice (DOJ) earlier today.

Hontiveros, who has led the Senate inquiry into the allegations of human trafficking, sexual abuse, and financial crimes linked to Quiboloy, said that Maurilio’s public statements “maliciously misrepresented the facts” and were intended to undermine her credibility and intimidate those supporting the investigation.

“I will not be silenced. This is not just an attack on me, but an attack on truth, accountability, and the victims seeking justice,” the senator said in a brief statement outside the DOJ office.

Alongside Maurilio, six vloggers were also named in the complaint for amplifying and resharing false claims originally made by the former witness, with some posts garnering thousands of views and comments online. Hontiveros’ legal team described their content as part of a “coordinated disinformation campaign” aimed at discrediting the investigation and shielding Quiboloy from public scrutiny.

The case marks a notable turn in the Senate's handling of disinformation amid politically and religiously sensitive investigations, and raises broader questions on the accountability of online content creators who spread unverified or deliberately false information.

The DOJ has yet to release a formal statement, but sources say the preliminary review of the complaint will be conducted within the week.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros files cyberlibel case vs ex-Senate witness, 6 vloggers over false Quiboloy claims