NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Baligod Shows Up; Calls For Fair Process In Cyberlibel Case
Photo credit: Levito Baligod
It was a straightforward but telling appearance at the City of Manila Prosecutor’s Office, as lawyer Levito Baligod confirmed he attended proceedings related to a cyberlibel complaint filed by Joel Chua.
Baligod, who represents 18 alleged former Marines—referred to as the “B18” in his social media posts—shared that the case is now under review, and he welcomed how the process is being handled so far.
According to him, the investigating prosecutor is strictly following the rules set under Department of Justice guidelines, particularly the requirement for a mandatory mediation conference before any counter-affidavits are submitted. The rule, outlined in DOJ Department Circular No. 31 Series of 2023, aims to give both parties a chance to settle or clarify issues early in the process.
Baligod even gave a nod to the prosecutor, saying the adherence to the rule ensures fairness and due process—something both sides in a legal dispute rely on.
The cyberlibel complaint remains under preliminary stages, with mediation expected to play a key role in what comes next.
Baligod, who represents 18 alleged former Marines—referred to as the “B18” in his social media posts—shared that the case is now under review, and he welcomed how the process is being handled so far.
According to him, the investigating prosecutor is strictly following the rules set under Department of Justice guidelines, particularly the requirement for a mandatory mediation conference before any counter-affidavits are submitted. The rule, outlined in DOJ Department Circular No. 31 Series of 2023, aims to give both parties a chance to settle or clarify issues early in the process.
Baligod even gave a nod to the prosecutor, saying the adherence to the rule ensures fairness and due process—something both sides in a legal dispute rely on.
The cyberlibel complaint remains under preliminary stages, with mediation expected to play a key role in what comes next.
May 4, 2026
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