Former Philippine Senate President Zubiri to File Cyber Libel Cases Over Corruption Allegations

Former Philippine Senate President Juan Miguel 'Migz' Zubiri has announced plans to file cyber libel cases against individuals spreading false corruption allegations against him on social media. Zubiri refuted the black propaganda, which came in the form of videos spreading rumors about his alleged ownership of a house in Forbes Park, private airplanes, jets, and helicopters, suggesting that he acquired these through corruption.

The black propaganda videos were released in two sets, with the first set emerging two months ago and the second set released during the week of Zubiri's ouster as Senate President. Zubiri claims that the timing of the videos is 'impeccable' and an obvious attempt to discredit his leadership and tarnish his name.

Zubiri denies owning a house in Forbes Park, stating that his current house was purchased in 2009 and is declared in his Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN). He also explained that he sometimes borrows private aircraft to attend functions on a tight schedule but does not own any. The senator admitted to building a resort in Camiguin, which is declared in his SALN and is not a private hideaway.

Why this matters: This matter highlights the importance of accountability in public office and the need to address false allegations that can damage reputations. If left unchecked, such allegations can lead to a erosion of trust in institutions and undermine the integrity of public officials.

Zubiri emphasized that he has a clean record and has never been involved in scandals involving public funds. He stated, 'So to whoever's spreading these lies to make it look like I'm pocketing government money to buy mansions and jets, these are totally false. I hope they're ready because I will be filing cases and will not stop until justice prevails.'

The Zubiri family has a long history of involvement in sugar milling and pineapple farming in Bukidnon, and Juan Miguel Zubiri is a major player in the industrial ice industry in Iloilo and Cagayan de Oro, in addition to the renewable energy industry in Bukidnon. Zubiri stated that he has a regular income and pays all his taxes, and he encourages aspiring politicians to have their own sources of income separate from public service.

The senator recalled that he was approached twice to sign his name for a P5 million payday tied to the liquid fertilizer scam, but he angrily turned both offers down. He expressed satisfaction in never being part of the PDAF and fertilizer scams in previous administrations.

Zubiri vowed to file cases against those spreading the false allegations and will not stop until justice prevails. The senator's commitment to clearing his name and holding those responsible accountable highlights his dedication to maintaining his integrity and reputation.

Key Takeaways

• Former Philippine Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri to file cyber libel cases against individuals spreading false corruption allegations.
• Zubiri denies owning a house in Forbes Park, private airplanes, and helicopters, calling the allegations "black propaganda".
• The allegations emerged in two sets of videos, with the second set released during Zubiri's ouster as Senate President.
• Zubiri claims to have a clean record, with no involvement in scandals involving public funds.
• Zubiri vows to file cases against those spreading false allegations and will not stop until justice prevails.