Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela has filed a cyberlibel complaint against vlogger Sass Rogando Sasot, citing a broader need to uphold integrity in public service and counter the rise of organized online disinformation.
The complaint was formally submitted on Friday before the Manila Prosecutor’s Office with legal support from the Movement Against Disinformation (MAD), a civil society organization that promotes truth in digital spaces. Tarriela is seeking over ₱1 million in damages.
In his statement, Commodore Tarriela described the move as “a necessary response to a series of baseless, malicious, and deeply personal online attacks that have targeted not only my private life but also my official role as Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea.”
Among the false claims circulated by Sasot, according to the complaint, are allegations that Tarriela received a $4 million “talent fee” from the United States, financial support from House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and accusations of academic dishonesty at the Philippine Military Academy—charges he flatly denies as entirely without merit.
“While I fully respect the role of free speech in a democratic society, that freedom does not extend to the willful spread of disinformation, personal defamation, or efforts to erode public confidence through falsehoods,” Tarriela said.
He said that the complaint is not only a personal legal recourse but also a message in defense of public servants “who silently endure online abuse and misrepresentation.”
“Let this serve as a reminder: freedom of expression must always be anchored in truth, responsibility, and respect,” he added.
In its separate statement, MAD identified Sasot—also known as Allan Troy Rogando Sasot—as the source of multiple defamatory posts published on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) between July and October 2023. These posts, the group said, falsely imply Tarriela’s involvement in bribery, corruption, and misconduct.
“This conduct is not protected speech,” MAD said. “It is libelous, harmful, and unlawful. Those responsible must be held legally accountable.”
MAD further noted that Tarriela’s visibility in communicating the Philippines’ position on the West Philippine Sea has made him a target of what it described as “organized online disinformation campaigns” seeking to undermine national institutions.
“The fight against disinformation is not just about protecting reputations,” the group added. “It is about defending truth, justice, and democratic integrity. No one should be harassed or defamed for faithfully performing their duty.”
The case highlights the increasing role of credible public communication amid geopolitical tension and the broader risks posed by unchecked disinformation in the digital age.
