Broadcast journalist Atom Araullo has taken legal action by filing a P2-million civil complaint against former communications undersecretary Lorraine Badoy-Partosa and Jeffrey “Ka Eric” Celiz.
This complaint is related to allegations linking Araullo’s family to communist rebels. The complaint is based on specific articles within the Civil Code.
“In seeking redress, Mr. Araullo claims nominal, moral, and exemplary damages amounting to P2,070,000,” MAD said in a statement.
“In addition, he is pursuing reasonable attorney’s fees and costs of litigation, highlighting the fact that the need for legal action arose directly from the need to vindicate his rights and assert the truth against the false narratives presented by the respondents,” it added.
Atom Araullo has legal representation from lawyers affiliated with the MAD.
According to MAD, Araullo and his mother, Carol Araullo, became the center of a “red-tagging spree” from early 2022 to January 2023. The group said Araullo, among other things, was called the “spawn” of an “active CPP Central Committee leader.”
The group also said Araullo was painted as an orchestrator of attacks against the government, being a member of the communist party, and accused of producing content that aligns with the propaganda of the Communist Party of the Philippines-National People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
Atom Araullo files defamation case vs. Badoy, Celiz
In a tweet, Araullo said the complaint stems from accusations and personal attacks Badoy and Celiz allegedly made against him and his family through their program on the Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) and other social media platforms.
“It is my considered belief that the nature of their remarks goes far beyond the boundaries of fair criticism, and are designed to discredit, intimidate, and foment public animosity towards both me and my family,” Araullo said.
“It also seems to be part of a broader pattern to harass and undermine members of the media whose reporting does not fit their agenda,” he added.
His decision to file this complaint is motivated not only by his family’s safety but also to protect and defend press freedom.
While he has not filed a criminal complaint against Badoy and Celiz, he underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable for spreading disinformation.
Visit our Facebook page for more news updates.