The camp of the former House Speaker on Thursday urged personalities linked to Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN) to answer the charges against them before the court, not through social media.
Atty. Elaine Atienza, spokesperson of former Speaker and Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, said Romualdez’s camp has avoided discussing the merits of the case publicly out of respect for ongoing judicial proceedings. “Sa ngayon we cannot speak of the details of the case, along with the other evidence kasi it’s already subject of ongoing proceedings,” Atienza said.
“But what we can say right now is that we are confident in the strength of our case and our evidence, and the court is the proper forum where we can test this evidence,” she added.
Asked about online claims attacking the complaint and the evidence, Atienza said their camp would not engage in speculation or try the case on social media.
“We respect the court process and we trust that the court will view this matter fairly. Ipinapaubaya po natin sa korte ang paglilitis at pagtingin sa mga ebidensyang ipipresenta ng mga parties,” she said.
Atienza also rejected attempts to frame the controversy as an issue of press freedom.
“This is not about press freedom. In fact, we encourage people, if they have anything against any person, they can report that to the authorities. But we should always follow the process,” she said.
She reminded all parties involved to exercise restraint while the case is pending.
“Of course. That goes for all, as lawyers and parties to the case, we are all enjoined and instructed not to talk about the merits of the case before the media and social media,” Atienza said when asked whether personalities linked to PGMN should avoid inflammatory online posts.
Atienza stressed that the judiciary, not online platforms, remains the proper venue for determining truth and accountability.
“And we encourage the public to be more circumspect, to be able to judge what we see on social media. Because ultimately it is the court that will decide,” she added.
She also confirmed that Romualdez was unable to personally attend the hearing but was represented by counsel. She said he remains prepared to comply with lawful court processes if his presence or participation is required.
“Si Speaker, hindi siya nakadalo ngayon dito sa hearing but he’s duly represented by counsel. If magkaroon, or if ma require yung kanyang presence or participation in the case whether by the court or under the rules, he will comply,” Atienza said.
“At the end of the day, this case will not be decided by hashtags, speculation, or social media theatrics. It will be decided by evidence, by law, and by the courts,” she added.