National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag said he receives death threats almost every day, but stressed that such intimidation should not become the norm, particularly online.
Matibag made the revelation when asked about the death threats received by Senator Risa Hontiveros, who sought the NBI’s assistance in investigating the threats against her, according to a report by RH Jecelle Ricafort.
“Araw-araw. I eat death threats for breakfast. Pati merienda,” Matibag said in an interview, echoing the famous line of the late former Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago.
Matibag did not provide further details about the threats against him but emphasized that threats and intimidation, especially those made online, should not be normalized.
The NBI is currently investigating a series of death threats against Hontiveros and has already identified persons of interest in connection with the case.
Matibag said the NBI Cybercrime Division may invite or subpoena the persons of interest (PIOs) in the coming days for questioning as investigators determine their possible involvement as the investigation continues.
“May group chat sila, na-establish namin,” Matibag said, adding that the individuals may be subpoenaed as the NBI continues its investigation.
He added that the bureau has also identified other persons of interest who allegedly posted messages calling for several personalities, including President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., to be the next targets following the death of political vlogger Alicia "Mima Alicia" Lipata.
