NBI to pursue legal action vs post alleging Matibag criticized INC

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said it will pursue legal action regarding a certain Facebook post alleging that its director, Melvin Matibag, spoke “negatively” about the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) and its followers.

While not specifying the supposed Facebook post, the bureau called it a “disinformation campaign,” which “is a transparent and malicious attempt to sow division among our citizens and undermine government stability.”

“Pursuant to our mandate, action is being taken to identify and dismantle the coordinated disinformation network responsible for these malicious publications,” the NBI noted in a statement on Wednesday evening.

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“All available legal remedies will be pursued to ensure that perpetrators involved in the fabrication and dissemination of this false information are held fully accountable under the law,” it emphasized.

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According to the NBI, Matibag “never” made statements against the INC and its followers.

“Throughout his career, the director has maintained the utmost respect for Iglesia Ni Cristo community and has consistently upheld the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and interfaith harmony,” it said.

The bureau urged the public to be discerning in consuming content on social media and reject “deliberate attempts to mislead and divide the nation.”

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“We advise everyone to rely exclusively on official statements and verified channels and to carefully confirm the authenticity of any information before sharing it online,” said the NBI.

Starting Tuesday, INC members and supporters have been conducting protests — from the Edsa People Power Monument in Quezon City to Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila — to show support for Sen. Rodante Marcoleta.

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READ: Despite rallies, Ombudsman filing plunder charges vs Marcoleta this week

This came after the Office of the Ombudsman announced on Monday that it is set to file plunder charges against Marcoleta this week in connection with his supposed P75 million undeclared campaign donations in the 2025 senatorial elections. /das

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