NGO head sues military general for defamation

A leader of a non-government organization (NGO) and a member of the Community Empowerment Resource Network (CERNET) has filed a civil lawsuit against the commander of the Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade over alleged defamatory statements.

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Estrella Flores-Catarata, also a psychologist, filed the lawsuit against Brigadier General Joey A. Escanillas over an alleged malicious statement linking her to communist insurgents.

The lawsuit stems from a press conference on April 30, 2024, where Escanillas publicly identified Flores-Catarata as a leader of the “Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).”

Flores-Catarata denied the accusations, noting that the complaint on Escanillas’ statements constituted defamation.

She said the statements significantly damaged her reputation, caused emotional distress, and raised concerns for her safety.

In her complaint, Flores-Catarata seeks damages against Escanillas in his personal capacity, citing violations under Articles 19, 20, 21, 26, and 33 of Republic Act 386, or the Civil Code of the Philippines.