MANILA, Philippines — Veteran actress Claudine Barretto has officially lodged a cyber libel complaint against controversial entertainment columnist Cristy Fermin and co-host Rommel Villamor, popularly known as Rommel Chika, before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Accompanied by her legal counsel, Barretto personally appeared at the NBI headquarters to file the formal charges stemming from remarks broadcasted on their online program, “Showbiz Now Na!”
The legal action centers on commentary addressing her mental health struggles with bipolar disorder, financial assistance reportedly extended by her sister Gretchen Barretto, and unverified speculations regarding her recent medical confinement.
According to the award-winning actress, she previously issued multiple appeals urging Fermin to halt discussions concerning her personal life, but chose to proceed with judicial action after the commentary persisted.
“Since last year, hindi niya talaga ako tinatantanan. Ito na yung last straw. Hindi talaga siya tumitigil,”
Barretto stated during a media briefing, explaining that the ongoing controversy has caused emotional distress to both herself and her children. She also affirmed that she is entirely closed to any settlement offers or apologies from Fermin.
When press representatives asked if she had any parting words for the veteran broadcaster, Barretto briefly responded,
“Happy Halloween!”