DOJ dismisses cyber libel raps filed by Annabelle Rama vs Jayke Joson

Jayke Joson. Contributed photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has dismissed the cyber libel complaint filed by talent manager Annabelle Rama-Gutierrez against former actor-producer Jayke Joson.

In a six-page resolution signed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, the DOJ granted the petition for review filed by Joson, asking for the reversal of the findings of the Quezon City Prosecutor.

Rama filed the complaint against Joson in 2021 following their back-and-forth bickering on social media and online news reports.

In his counter-affidavit, Joson denied having a hand in the publication of what Rama said were “libelous” reports. He also cited Rama’s status as a public figure, making his remarks against her “form part of privilege communication.”

“The OCP QC (Office of the City Prosecutor in Quezon City) erred in finding probable cause against respondent-appellant (Joson),” the DOJ said in its resolution.

The DOJ explained that malice, in this case, is not present.

READ: Jayke Joson hinamon si Annabelle Rama na maglabas ng ebidensiya: Or I will sue them in court

Quoting a Supreme Court ruling, the DOJ said malice “is present when it is shown that the author of the libelous remarks made such statements when it is shown that the author of the libelous remarks made such statements with the knowledge that it was false or with reckless disregard as to the truth or falsity thereof.”

In the case of Joson, the DOJ explained that his remarks were not defamatory and that Joson was able to present documentary proof to back the statements he issued against Rama.

“The remarks of the Respondent-Appellant [Joson] were not defamatory. On the contrary, Joson was able to present the documentary proof on which he based his statements upon,” the resolution also stated.

The DOJ ordered the City Prosecutor to withdraw the Information for cyber libel and report the action taken within 10 days.

RELATED STORIES

Annabelle Rama faces cyber libel rap filed by NBI after complaint from Manny Pacquiao’s ex-aide

DOJ orders withdrawal of cyber libel charges vs Annabelle Rama filed by Pacquiao’s former aide