Manila: Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Commodore Jay Tarriela has filed a cyberlibel complaint against vlogger Sass Rogando Sasot. The complaint was lodged with the Manila Prosecutor's Office with legal assistance from the Movement Against Disinformation (MAD), a non-profit organization dedicated to combating disinformation on social media.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tarriela is seeking damages exceeding PHP1 million. In a statement, Tarriela described the complaint as 'a necessary response to a series of baseless, malicious, and deeply personal online attacks' targeting his private life and professional duties. Sasot's allegations include claims of a USD4 million 'talent fee' from the United States, financial ties with House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and academic dishonesty at the Philippine Military Academy, all of which Tarriela denies.

Tarriela emphasized the importance of truth and responsibility in free speech, stating that the complaint aims to defend public servants against online abuse and misrepresentation. 'Freedom of expression must always be anchored in truth, responsibility, and respect,' he said.

MAD, in a separate statement, highlighted that Sasot, also known as Allan Troy Rogando Sasot, posted defamatory content on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) last year. The posts allegedly misrepresent Tarriela as being involved in bribery, corruption, and misconduct, which MAD claims are not protected speech and are libelous.

MAD further noted that Tarriela's role in informing the public about developments in the WPS and asserting the country's sovereignty amidst tensions with China has made him a target of 'organized online disinformation.' The organization stressed the importance of defending truth and justice, asserting that no one should face harassment or defamation for performing their duties.