A self-styled video blogger known to be a supporter of the Duterte administration was arrested on June 23 in Baguio City for libel.
Niño R. Barzaga, 43, of Naga City, and wanted for three counts of libel in relation to Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, was arrested by operatives of Manila Police District led by Lt/Col. Rosalino Ibay Jr. and Baguio City Police Office Station 3 under Cpt. Nelvin Garduque and led by Lt. Rodolfo Mangay-ayam Jr. in front of a residence at 33 Hamada Road, Lourdes Extension.
The manhunt operation was made by virtue of an alias warrant of arrest issued by Presiding Judge Trese Wenceslao of Regional Trial Court Branch 28, Cabanatuan City dated Aug. 6, 2018.
A video posted on YouTube shows operatives informing the suspect, who is seen not resisting arrest, about the nature of his arrest and apprising him of his constitutional rights.
Maj. Judy Jasmin Palicos of the BCPO said the suspect was brought to Manila immediately after his arrest for documentation and proper disposition.
Barzaga is a known defender of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte and uses video blogs in making known his opinions, criticisms, and statements regarding issues and personalities.
Recently, Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas said she eyeing to file charges against Barzaga for use of lewd language and for recording and posting a June 2 phone call conversation over social media. – Hanna C. Lacsamana
