Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Adm. Jay Tarriela said he has yet to receive any formal notice from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) regarding the cyber libel complaint filed against him by former National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos.
In a statement responding to media inquiries, Tarriela said he learned about the complaint through media reports.
“I have not received any summons or notice from the NBI regarding the complaint, and I only learned of it through media reports. I have full trust in the professionalism of the NBI and its processes,” Tarriela said.
He said he would refrain from commenting on the merits of the complaint until he has reviewed its contents and learned the basis of the charges.
“At this point, I will refrain from commenting on the merits since I have not seen the complaint and do not know the basis of the charges. Once I receive the formal notice, I will respond through the proper legal process,” he added.
Tarriela also referred to Carlos' recent statements and social media posts, leaving the public to form its own assessment.
“What I can say is that the public has been fully aware of what former Professor Clarita Carlos has said and posted on social media recently. I will leave it to our countrymen to judge for themselves. Thank you,” he said.
Carlos filed the cyber libel complaint against Tarriela, Philippine Military Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Mike Logico, and other personalities before the NBI, according to NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag.
