Risa Hontiveros responds to the death threats she recently received
Senator Risa Hontiveros received hundreds of death threats on social media after condemning the killing of political vlogger Alicia Lipata, known online as “Mima Alicia.”
In a recent statement, Hontiveros noted that instead of offering condolences, some people were celebrating the death and allegedly inciting violence. The lawmaker added that many were openly threatening that she would be the “next” target.
Hontiveros stated that her staff had already reported the comments to Facebook and submitted the names and screenshots of the users who threatened her life to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
In her statement, based on the report from Abante News Online, the lawmaker said, “We are taking these threats seriously. My staff has routinely deleted and reported these disturbing comments on Facebook, and we have submitted to the NBI the names and screenshots of hundreds of Facebook users who have threatened to kill me.”
She also called on social media platforms and authorities to take action against what she called a “culture of impunity” online. Her supporters rallied behind her back, as they also condemned the threats against her.
Meanwhile, Sen. Risa Hontiveros expressed in a previous statement that she is seriously considering running for president in the 2028 elections. “Ako ay seryosong nagko-consider sa possibility kaya naghahanda sa posibilidad na iyon,” the lawmaker boldly said.
Some supporters are pushing for the WinRi tandem, Hontiveros’s possible tandem with Senator Win Gatchalian. On the other hand, the female senator said that whoever in their group leads the survey, they will support. She also stressed that there should be one candidate from them, so that there is a stronger possibility of success, as their support will be focused on one candidate only.