Technology · Philippines Bureau
Popular vlogger arrested in Philippines on three cyberlibel charges
Norman Mangusin, known online as Francis Leo Marcos, was taken into custody Monday by Philippine police on cyberlibel allegations. The vlogger-businessman faces bail requirements totaling P90,000 across the charges.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA—The Philippine National Police arrested vlogger and businessman Norman Mangusin, who operates under the online alias "Francis Leo Marcos," on Monday afternoon in connection with three counts of cyberlibel, authorities said.
Mangusin remains in the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the police unit tasked with investigating serious crimes. Bail has been set at P30,000 for each of the three counts, bringing the total bail requirement to P90,000.
The arrest marks a significant development in cyberlibel cases in the Philippines, where online defamation allegations have become increasingly common as social media usage expands. The charges underscore ongoing concerns about digital platforms being used to spread harmful content.
Cyberlibel cases in the Philippines carry potential penalties under the Revised Penal Code as modified by the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The law criminalizes the use of computer systems and the internet to commit libel, which has drawn both support from those seeking online accountability and criticism from press freedom advocates.