Senator Risa Hontiveros said she has submitted to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) the names and screenshots of hundreds of social media users who allegedly posted death threats against her, as she called for action against online violence following the killing of political vlogger Alicia Lipata.
In a statement on Thursday, Hontiveros said the threats directed at her have intensified amid online reactions to Lipata’s death, which she said reflected a growing culture of violence and hostility in political discussions.
Lipata, also known online as “Mima Alicia,” was killed in a shooting incident in Caloocan City on July 17. The 24-year-old vlogger was known for her political commentaries and criticism of Vice President Sara Duterte and her allies.
The Philippine National Police has identified two suspects in connection with the killing, although authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the attack.
Hontiveros said some online comments following Lipata’s death went beyond political disagreement, with some users allegedly celebrating the killing and others warning that she could become the next target.
“We are taking these threats seriously. My staff has routinely deleted and reported these disturbing comments on Facebook, and we have submitted to the NBI the names and screenshots of hundreds of Facebook users who have threatened to kill me,” she said.
The senator called on social media platforms and law enforcement agencies to strengthen measures against online threats, saying violent statements should not be treated as ordinary political exchanges.
“Hindi dapat maging normal sa atin ang pagbabanta sa buhay ng ating kapwa. Kahit gaano kalalim ang pagkakaiba natin sa pulitika, may hangganan ang ating mga pagtatalo,” Hontiveros said.
She added that political disagreements should not lead to threats or violence.
“We cannot allow such hatred to cost another life. We are better than this,” she said.
Photo courtesy of Asian Journal News
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