Aklan Court Acquits Broadcaster of Libel

KALIBO, Aklan – The Aklan Regional Trial Court has acquitted broadcaster Jonathan Cabrera of Radyo Todo Aklan of libel charges filed by a government employee.

In a 10-page decision released March 27, 2025, Judge Arville Delgado ruled that Cabrera’s comments during his Feb. 9, 2019, radio broadcast were not intended to defame complainant Weena Suzanne Igtanloc.

Igtanloc is an employee of the Aklan Provincial Hospital’s blood bank.

Cabrera was accused of libel after criticizing Igtanloc’s behavior on air, saying his remarks stemmed from frustration over alleged arrogance and rudeness by staff toward a media reporter seeking information.

The court acknowledged that Igtanloc, as a medical technologist on duty at the time, was a government official.

In the ruling, Delgado cited jurisprudence stating that offensive remarks about public officials are not considered libel if related to their official duties.

Delgado found Cabrera’s criticism focused on Igtanloc’s performance in her public role, not her personal character.

The court also noted that Cabrera gave Igtanloc ample airtime to respond and express her side, showing no intent to harm her reputation.

Delgado added that the prosecution failed to prove malice, pointing out that Cabrera had no prior relationship with Igtanloc and did not know her name before the incident.

Cabrera welcomed the court’s ruling and offered an apology to Igtanloc and her family despite his acquittal.

“I am happy with the court’s decision and grateful to God,” Cabrera said.

“He knows I had no bad intentions, but only to serve as the voice of the people.”