A broadcaster and block-timer of a local radio station in Dumaguete City is facing libel charges before the Regional Trial Court in Negros Oriental.
Johnny Cahilog, also known as Rex Santos, aka “Kandos”, was sued for libel by businessman Mark Gobonseng and his wife, Nicane, after the broadcaster allegedly maligned their names through attacks in the radio program “Kandos” regarding a drug raid that occurred earlier this year inside the “Ang Barko” establishment in Barangay Looc, Dumaguete City.
“Ang Barko” is owned by the Gobonsengs.
Cahilog, known for his hard-hitting commentaries, claimed he was merely criticizing and asking questions as to why Gobonseng would not allow operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Philippine National Police in Dumaguete to enter the pension house where the reported drug personalities were earlier spotted by informants.
In fact, the anti-illegal drugs operation yielded positive results that led to the arrest of the suspects and the confiscation of illegal drugs paraphernalia, he added, saying he served as a witness during the inventory.
Cahilog surrendered to the police after learning that an arrest warrant was issued against him by RTC Branch 38 Presiding Judge Cenon Voltaire Repollo, and posted his bail of P10,000.
Repollo has issued a release order for Cahilog and set the arraignment on August 2. (PNA)