Former Finance Official Files Cyber Libel Case Against Pro-Duterte Blogger Sass Rogando Sasot
SASS ROGANDO SASOT – The pro-Duterte blogger is facing a cyber libel complaint filed by former Finance official Cielo Magno at the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office on Tuesday, March 25.
Sasot is a political blogger, writer, and social media personality known for her strong support of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. She gained prominence as a vocal advocate of Duterte’s policies, frequently engaging in political discussions online.
Sasot has a background in international relations and has been involved in activism, particularly on issues concerning the LGBTQ+ community. She studied at Leiden University in the Netherlands. Over the years, she has become a controversial figure due to her outspoken political views and online activities.
Sasot is facing a cyber libel complaint filed by former Finance official Cielo Magno. In a Facebook post, Magno stated that, like many others, she had also been a victim of false accusations made by Sasot. She emphasized that it is time to take legal action to put an end to online defamation without consequences.
Magno expressed hope that this step would help restore respect in online discussions and promote accountability and good governance. She believes that addressing such issues legally is necessary to ensure the responsible use of social media.
Meanwhile, cyber libel is a form of defamation committed through digital platforms such as social media, websites, blogs, or online publications. In the Philippines, it is covered under Republic Act No. 10175, also known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. To be considered cyber libel, a statement must be defamatory, published online, and directed at a specific person or entity, even if not explicitly named.
It must also be proven that the statement was made with malice or intent to harm. Compared to traditional libel under the Revised Penal Code, cyber libel carries a heavier penalty, with imprisonment of up to eight years and fines determined by the court. Additionally, individuals who like, share, or comment on defamatory posts may also be held liable.