THE camp of former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Thursday urged personalities linked to Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN) to answer the charges against them before the court.
Speaking to reporters after the hearing, Atienza stressed that their camp has deliberately refrained from discussing the details of the case publicly out of respect for judicial proceedings.
“Sa ngayon we cannot speak of the details of the case, along with the other evidence kasi it’s already subject of ongoing proceedings,” Atienza said.
“But what we can say right now is that we are confident in the strength of our case and our evidence, and the court is the proper forum where we can test this evidence,” she added.
Asked about claims circulating online attacking the complaint and the evidence, Atienza said their camp would not engage in speculation or litigate the case through social media.
“We respect the court process and we trust that the court will view this matter fairly. Ipinapaubaya po natin sa korte ang paglilitis at pagtingin sa mga ebidensyang ipipresenta ng mga parties,” she added.
Atienza likewise rejected attempts to portray the controversy as an attack on press freedom.
“This is not about press freedom. In fact, we encourage people—if they have anything against any person, they can report that to the authorities. But we should always follow the process,” she said.
She also reminded all parties connected to the case to exercise restraint while proceedings are ongoing.
“Of course. That goes for all, as lawyers and parties to the case, we are all enjoined and instructed not to talk about the merits of the case before the media and social media,” Atienza said when asked if personalities linked to PGMN should refrain from inflammatory online posts.
Atienza stressed that the proper venue for determining truth and accountability is the judiciary—not online platforms.
“And we encourage the public to be more circumspect, to be able to judge what we see on social media. Because ultimately it is the court that will decide,” she added.
She also confirmed that Romualdez was unable to attend the hearing personally but remains willing to comply with any lawful court processes if necessary.
“Si Speaker, hindi siya nakadalo ngayon dito sa hearing but he’s duly represented by counsel. If magkaroon, or if ma require yung kanyang presence or participation in the case whether by the court or under the rules, he will comply,” Atienza said.
“At the end of the day, this case will not be decided by hashtags, speculation, or social media theatrics. It will be decided by evidence, by law, and by the courts,” Atienza added.
