(Eagle News)–Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Tuesday, Sept. 3, said he would file libel charges against Inquirer.net and Rappler for their claims he endorsed the executive clemency bid of former Calauan, Laguna Mayor Antonio Sanchez.
“Those articles they’re reeking with not only irresponsibility but with malice,” Panelo said, referring to the Rappler story “Panelo endorsed Sanchez’s letter for executive clemency,” and an Inquirer.net Tweet saying the same.
But Panelo has said he merely “referred” the letter to the Board of Pardons and Parole, the same thing he does with “all kinds of letters” reaching his office.
In a statement, Rappler stood by its story.
“Instead of shooting the messenger, Panelo should instead answer questions about his possible conflicts of interest,” Rappler said, calling Panelo’s move a “diversionary tactic.”
Inquirer.net, for its part, said it “respects” Panelo’s right to sue, and would refer the complaint to its lawyers once received.
