By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO , Agusan del Sur – Former Surigao del Norte second district congressman Francisco Jose Matugas II has filed cyber libel complaints on Tuesday against an alleged troll page, which he claimed continues to besmirch his reputation without let-up in the last three months.
Jun Parada, a former broadcast personality and close aide of Matugas, stated that the former lawmaker has filed a lawsuit against the Facebook page Cup of Politics Surigao Today before Surigao City Prosecutor Glad Ompod-Gonzaga.
In a statement posted on his social media page, Matugas said the alleged troll page targeted him in online attacks and disseminated false information against him.
He said the posts in question contain malicious and untrue statements intended to harm reputations, rather than contribute to constructive public discourse.
While Matugas affirms his respect for free speech and fair criticism as cornerstones of democracy, he emphasized that deliberate disinformation and libel are not protected by law.
He stated that he will trust in the country’s institutions and allow the legal process to proceed without engaging in public litigation on social media.
Matugas urged all individuals to practice responsible online behavior, verify information before sharing, and participate in respectful, fact-based discussions.
After serving for three terms in Congress, Matugas ran and lost to incumbent Gov. Lyndon Barbers in last year’s mid-term elections.
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