Benny Abante seeks NBI probe into alleged fake news, online attacks
Abante said he has been patient with his critics but stressed that he would no longer tolerate what he described as below-the-belt attacks and deliberate falsehoods. Screenshot from a video by Zyann Ambrosio, ABS-CBN NewsMANILA — Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. on Friday asked the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate individuals allegedly spreading false and defamatory statements about him on social media. The lawmaker said those behind the online attacks could face cyber libel charges.
Abante said he has been patient with his critics but stressed that he would no longer tolerate what he described as below-the-belt attacks and deliberate falsehoods.
“I’ve been very kind to those who are actually attacking me. Pero pag below the belt na ’yun, dapat na talagang bigyan ng close-up,” Abante said.
Among the allegations he disputed was a claim linking him to an alleged sexual harassment incident in a golf course in Antipolo.
Abante denied any involvement in the incident and rejected claims that he had been banned from golf courses in the area.
“Grabe na ito, hindi ako nakapag-golf sa Antipolo, wala akong kinalaman doon,” he said, adding that he was still trying to identify the vloggers allegedly responsible for spreading the claims.
Asked about the possible motive behind the attacks, Abante said he could not yet determine who was behind them or whether any politician was involved.
He emphasized that he did not want to accuse anyone without sufficient information and had turned to the NBI to help establish the facts.
“Actually, hindi ko pa alam eh. We’re still in the process of knowing things. Kaya nga nagpunta na ako sa NBI para sila na makakaalam,” Abante said.
The congressman appealed to his critics to exercise honesty and responsibility in their public statements, emphasizing that criticism should not be based on fabricated information.
Abante said the alleged online attacks had been ongoing for more than a week.