THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is now conducting a case build-up against hundreds of Facebook users who have allegedly posted remarks threatening to kill majority senator and possible 2028 presidential contender Anna Theresia ‘Risa’ Hontiveros.
In an interview on the sidelines of the Third Weekly Membership Meeting of the Rotary Club of Manila, Matibag told reporters that Hontiveros’ camp has already communicated its request for investigation on the ‘wave of threats’ and ‘pro-killing’ remarks online that erupted online following the killing of pro-administration vlogger Alicia Lipata, known as Mima Alicia.
Hontiveros said her office has submitted to the NBI the names and screenshots of hundreds of Facebook users who have threatened to kill her.
Matibag said the identified Facebook accounts would be referred to the NBI forensic laboratory, as well as, its Cybercrime Division for proper disposition.
‘Like any other case that was referred to us for investigation, we will do a case build-up on this matter and after the case build-up, if we feel that it is enough for us to file a case before the DOJ [Department of Justice], then we will file it,’ Matibag added.
Matibag also expressed alarm that uttering or posting death threats online has become a norm even for some government officials.
The NBI, however, assured that the agency would pursue those behind the death threats against Hontiveros.
‘As a law enforcement agency, we will do our mandate as to the law and order. If we need to run after them, we will run after them.
But make no mistake that this will be political or personal. We will base our actions on evidence and according to the process and to the law,’ Matibag stressed.
Hontiveros said her camp is taking these threats seriously.