Online personalities MJ Reyes and Krizette Chu issued public apologies during a House committee hearing on Friday after being confronted about their controversial social media posts.
Reyes had claimed that the drug war killings during the Duterte administration were a “massive hoax” and accused “criminal forces” of distorting the narrative. Lawmakers, including Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante and Abang Lingkod Rep. Stephen Paduano, challenged her to back her claims with official documents, especially as the Commission on Human Rights has documented numerous extrajudicial killings.
Reyes admitted her statements were based on news reports and personal opinion, ultimately apologizing and vowing to seek proper documentation before making such assertions again.
Chu, on the other hand, apologized for using the term tanga (stupid) in a Facebook post criticizing government spending on cash aid while national debt rose. She clarified the post expressed her frustration and not directed at lawmakers. “I will apologize for saying the word tanga, Sir,” she told the committee.
Chu also faced scrutiny for a post suggesting police officers were resigning following former President Duterte’s arrest. When asked for proof, Chu cited impressions from TikTok and admitted she had no verified data. Police Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre confirmed that no police personnel had resigned over the matter.
While Chu stood by the overall message of her post as supportive of the PNP, she admitted her resignation claim was inaccurate.
The hearing was part of the House Tri-Committee’s inquiry into cybercrimes and misinformation, emphasizing the importance of responsible content creation, especially when discussing sensitive national issues.