NBI Files Criminal Charges Against Atty. Raul Lambino and Ronald Cardema for Alleged Fake News on Duterte TRO

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In an unprecedented move that could send political ripples across the country, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has officially filed criminal charges against high-profile political figures Atty. Raul Lambino and Ronald Cardema for allegedly spreading false information implicating the Supreme Court in a fabricated legal action favoring former President Rodrigo Duterte.

The charges stem from statements made by the two claiming that the Supreme Court had issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) halting any attempt to arrest Duterte—an assertion that has now been categorically dismissed as false by the country’s highest court and verified through a formal NBI investigation.

Weaponizing Misinformation: The Charges

According to the NBI, both Lambino—a known legal ally of Duterte—and Cardema, former chairman of the National Youth Commission, face serious allegations under the Revised Penal Code, particularly Article 154, which punishes the unlawful use of means of publication and unlawful utterances.

These provisions criminalize the deliberate dissemination of false information that could endanger public order, sow chaos, or manipulate national perception—offenses that strike at the very heart of democratic stability.

The NBI’s complaint outlines how both individuals allegedly made public pronouncements and utilized mass media to broadcast their claims regarding the supposed TRO, even as the Supreme Court itself issued no such order. Their statements, according to authorities, were not only baseless but timed to inflame public sentiment and confuse ongoing legal and political discourse.

A Nation on Edge

The incident has further polarized an already tense political landscape, with allies of the former president decrying what they call "political persecution," while critics argue this is a long-overdue reckoning for a culture of disinformation that gained traction during Duterte’s administration.

Observers note that this development follows increasing scrutiny over attempts to shield Duterte from mounting legal challenges—both domestic and international—regarding his role in the deadly war on drugs, among other alleged human rights violations.

The Cost of a Lie

“This isn't just about a legal misstep. This is about holding powerful people accountable for manipulating the truth,” said an NBI official who requested anonymity. “When the line between fact and fiction is deliberately blurred by public figures, the consequences can be catastrophic—not just for institutions, but for the people who rely on them.”

In recent years, the Philippines has seen a spike in politically motivated disinformation campaigns, with social media becoming a fertile ground for propaganda and fake news. Legal experts warn that if unchecked, these tactics could corrode public trust in democratic institutions like the judiciary.

The Supreme Court Responds

In a rare statement, the Supreme Court flatly denied ever issuing any TRO in relation to the arrest or legal proceedings against Duterte. “No such Temporary Restraining Order has been granted. Any report or claim suggesting otherwise is entirely false and misleading,” a spokesperson said.

This official declaration bolstered the NBI's move to pursue legal action, citing the clear intent behind Lambino and Cardema’s public statements.

What Comes Next

If found guilty, both Lambino and Cardema could face imprisonment and heavy fines, but beyond the legal penalties, the reputational damage and political fallout could be severe.

As the justice system now takes center stage, the country watches closely. Will this signal a renewed era of accountability, or will it ignite deeper political divisions?

For now, one thing is clear: truth itself is on trial. And the outcome could define the course of the nation’s political future.

Stay tuned as Wazzup Pilipinas continues to provide verified, fearless, and factual updates on this developing story.

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