Franco Mabanta, an online media network personality, and four other individuals have posted bail on Saturday in connection with a case of robbery with violence against or intimidation of persons. The charges stem from an alleged extortion attempt targeting former House Speaker and current Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez.
The Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 167 issued the release order after Mabanta and his four co-accused each posted bail in the amount of P120,000. The court was operational on Saturday pursuant to a 2025 memorandum issued by the executive judge of the Pasig RTC.
The Allegations and Arrest
According to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Mabanta, the founder of the Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN), and four others were arrested earlier this week during an entrapment operation. The group subsequently underwent inquest proceedings on Wednesday evening.
NBI spokesperson Palmer Mallari stated that the inquest was conducted under Article 294 of the Revised Penal Code, which covers robbery with violence against or intimidation of persons.
Authorities allege that Mabanta and his associates attempted to extort P300 million from Romualdez. In exchange for the payment, the group allegedly offered to withhold a video that purportedly linked the lawmaker to anomalous flood control projects.
Defense and Legal Standing
Mabanta has denied the allegations, characterizing the entrapment operation as a “setup.” He has stated that he and his colleagues are prepared to prove their innocence as the case proceeds.
As the accused are now out on bail, the legal process may move toward formal trial proceedings where the evidence regarding the alleged video and the extortion attempt will be examined.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much was the bail for the accused?
Each of the five individuals, including Franco Mabanta, filed P120,000 in bail.
What is the specific charge filed against the group?
The group is charged with robbery with violence against or intimidation of persons under Article 294 of the Revised Penal Code.
What was the alleged motive for the extortion?
Authorities allege the group sought P300 million to withhold a video supposedly linking Representative Martin Romualdez to anomalous flood control projects.
Do you believe entrapment operations are the most effective way to handle high-profile extortion cases?
