NBI Arrests Franco Mabanta After Alleged Extortion Attempt on Former House Speaker
FRANCO MABANTA – The social media personality and founder of Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN) was arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Pasig City on May 5, along with four other individuals, over an alleged attempted extortion involving ₱350 million. The case is reportedly linked to former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Authorities said Mabanta was caught in an entrapment operation after allegedly demanding ₱350 million in exchange for not releasing a supposed video that would link Romualdez to a flood control project scandal. Investigators also claimed that around ₱75 million had already been partially paid as an initial amount before the operation took place.
According to the NBI, the suspect allegedly used the threat of posting the material on his social media platform to pressure the victim into paying the full amount. The demand was reportedly reduced at some point, and payments were said to have been requested in installments.
Instead of agreeing to the demand, Romualdez reportedly brought the matter to authorities, which led to the planned entrapment operation. Mabanta and his companions were then arrested during the sting operation in Pasig City.
Following his arrest, Mabanta declined to give a detailed statement and said he would first consult with his legal counsel before addressing the allegations. The other individuals arrested alongside him are also expected to face investigation.
The NBI confirmed that Mabanta is set to undergo inquest proceedings, where formal charges will be reviewed. Authorities continue to investigate the case to determine the full extent of the alleged extortion attempt and the involvement of the other suspects.
The incident has drawn public attention due to Mabanta’s online presence and the high-profile nature of the individual involved in the complaint. As of now, the investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not yet released further details on possible additional charges or developments in the case.