A founder of an online media network found himself at the center of a high-profile arrest, drawing Malacañang into the controversy on Wednesday as it denied any link to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro rejected claims of any connection between Marcos and arrested Peanut Gallery Media Network founder Franco Mabanta, who faces an extortion complaint involving former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
“Hindi po siya kaibigan ng Pangulo,” Castro said.
The National Bureau of Investigation arrested Mabanta and four others for allegedly attempting to extort P350 million from Romualdez in exchange for not releasing a video linked to flood control issues.
Castro said the administration supports accountability but stressed that due process must be observed in all cases.
“Ang nais naman po ng Pangulo sa lahat ng pagkakataon, managot ang dapat managot,” she said.
“Kung mayroon po silang dapat na panagutan, kung mayroon po silang ginawang krimen, dapat lamang po nila itong panagutan. Pero definitely, kailangan po ng due process sa lahat ng bagay,” she added.
Castro also cited photos showing Mabanta with former President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte, and former presidential spokesman Harry Roque, saying these raise questions on his other associations.
Mabanta has denied the allegations.
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