The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) reported that 32 individuals were arrested for alleged online libel violations between January 1 and May 15, 2026.Aside from the arrests, authorities also referred 276 online libel complaints for prosecution during the same period.

According to the PNP, the accused may face charges under Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, which imposes penalties that are considered heavier than those for traditional libel under the Revised Penal Code.

The PNP explained that online libel involves publicly and maliciously accusing or imputing a crime, vice, defect, or any act that could damage another person’s honor or reputation through digital or online platforms.

The operations leading to the arrests and case referrals were conducted by the PNP-ACG’s specialized operating units together with regional, provincial, city, and district cyber response teams across the country.

The report highlights the continued monitoring of social media and online activities by authorities as cyber-related complaints increase in the Philippines.PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.emphasized that while social media remains a powerful communication platform, users must also exercise accountability in what they post online.He said the PNP will continue enforcing cybercrime laws while ensuring that individual rights are still respected.

The article also mentioned related anti-cybercrime operations previously conducted by the PNP-ACG, including arrests connected to online investment scams and other cybercrime activities.