Iloilo City Rep. Julienne Baronda has filed cyberlibel and perjury complaints before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against 18 former Marines and lawyer Levito “Levi” Baligod.
The complaints stem from allegations that circulated publicly claiming that Baronda received suitcases allegedly containing money and linked to supposed irregularities in flood control projects.
Baronda said she decided to pursue legal action to defend herself and her family against what she described as damaging accusations.
According to the lawmaker, the allegations have affected her reputation and prompted her to seek legal remedies through the DOJ.
Baronda also raised the possibility that the issue may be connected to her participation in Quad Committee hearings.
She noted that during the hearings, she defended Iloilo City against allegations linking the city to illegal drugs.
Iloilo City has long been associated with the drug issue after it was labeled a “shabulized city” in 2016, a characterization that local officials have consistently rejected.
The congresswoman did not provide further details regarding the basis for her belief that the controversy may be related to her role in the Quad Committee proceedings.
The complaints filed before the DOJ mark the latest development in the dispute involving the allegations connected to the reported flood control project controversy.
As of the filing of the complaints, the case is expected to undergo the standard evaluation process conducted by prosecutors to determine whether sufficient grounds exist for further legal proceedings.
The allegations cited in the complaint involve claims that Baronda allegedly received money-filled suitcases. The lawmaker has denied the accusations and maintains that the allegations are false and damaging.
The filing of the cyberlibel and perjury complaints formally brings the matter before the DOJ for review and possible action under existing laws.
