Parokya ni Edgar frontman Chito Miranda has come to the defense of his wife, actress and entrepreneur Neri Naig, following her recent arrest over alleged violations of the Securities Regulation Code and charges of estafa.
Miranda confirmed the reports, initially revealed by showbiz insider Ogie Diaz, that Naig was arrested in Pasay City over the weekend. However, he stressed her innocence, emphasizing that Naig has always conducted herself with honesty and compassion.
Chito’s Defense
In a heartfelt social media post, Miranda wrote:
“Never nanloko si Neri, at never siya nanlamang sa kapwa. Never siyang kumuha o nanghingi ng pera kahit kanino man… Tulong lang siya ng tulong hangga’t kaya niya.”
(“Neri never fooled or took advantage of anyone. She never took or asked for money from anyone. She just kept helping as much as she could.”)
Miranda explained that Naig’s role was limited to being an endorser and that her image was allegedly used by others to solicit investments.
“Kinasuhan siya ng mga nabiktima. Tapos last week, bigla na lang siyang inaresto for the same case kahit hindi pa siya binigyan ng notice… Wala siyang nareceive na letter from the prosecutor, walang subpoena, walang kahit anong notice.”
(“The victims sued her. Then last week, she was suddenly arrested for the same case even though she did not receive any notice… No letter, subpoena, or anything.”)
Connection to Dermacare
Miranda referenced Dermacare COO Chanda Atienza, whose company was flagged by the SEC for illegal investment schemes. According to Miranda, Naig had no direct involvement in Dermacare’s financial activities, as all transactions were handled by Atienza.
“Wala siyang kinuhang pera sa ibang tao, lahat ng pera nila na kay Chanda, ang may-ari ng Dermacare,” he said.
(“She didn’t take any money from other people; all their money is with Chanda, the owner of Dermacare.”)
Previous Dismissals
Miranda also noted that similar charges against Naig in the past had been dismissed, and he remains hopeful the same will happen with the current case.
Arrest Confirmed
The National Capital Region Police Office – Southern Police District (NCRPO-SPD) confirmed the arrest of an individual identified as “alias Neri” for alleged securities violations, including the illegal sale of unregistered securities.
Miranda shared a letter from Dermacare apologizing for Naig’s entanglement in the business’ controversies. Attempts to reach Atienza and Dermacare for comment have so far been unsuccessful.