NBI files cyber libel charges vs. Jay Sonza, YouTuber over alleged false health claims on President Marcos

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has filed criminal charges before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against a former newsman and a prominent YouTuber for the alleged dissemination of false medical information about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

In a statement, the NBI said the complaints stemmed from a targeted cyber-surveillance operation conducted by its Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD) in January 2026.

The operation identified two primary sources of the alleged misinformation: Jose Yumang Sonza, also known as Jay Sonza, and Jeffrey Luces Celiz, known online as “Ka Eric Celiz.”

According to investigators, Sonza posted content on his Meta-verified Facebook account, while Celiz allegedly broadcast similar claims on his YouTube channel, which has accumulated nearly 10 million total views.

NBI agents documented online posts on January 28 and 29, 2026, showing a CT-scan report alongside images of the President. The posts called for transparency regarding the President’s “fitness for duty” and alleged a “deterioration” in his medical condition.

Although the original Facebook posts were later deleted or restricted, the NBI said it preserved the material through digital forensic screenshots and tracked how the content continued to spread through reposts and citations online.

At the same time, investigators monitored the “Ka Eric Celiz” YouTube channel and found videos that allegedly amplified the claims, questioning the President’s ability to lead based on what authorities described as unverified medical documents.

The NBI has recommended that both individuals be prosecuted for cyber libel under Section 4(c)(4) of Republic Act 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. They also face charges for the unlawful use of means of publication under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

“In an era where information can rapidly influence public perception, we remind all stakeholders that freedom of expression carries with it the responsibility to ensure accuracy and accountability,” said NBI Director Atty. Angelito DLP. Magno.

Magno stressed that the bureau remains committed to policing the digital space to prevent the spread of malicious misinformation.

While the NBI respects the fundamental right to free speech, he said, the right is not absolute and does not allow the violation of the rights of others.

“As a matter of law and public responsibility, one’s freedom of expression ends where the rights of another are violated,” the NBI chief added.

The case now awaits evaluation by prosecutors at the Department of Justice.