NGO Head Files Lawsuit Against Army Officer

NGO Head Files Lawsuit Against Army Officer

Scoop: Social Worker Takes High-Ranking Military Officer to Court Over Defamation and Red-Tagging

Estrella Catarata, a seasoned social worker and registered psychologist, has kicked off a legal battle against Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas for defamation and red-tagging accusations. The move comes in response to statements made by Escanillas during an online press briefing, which Catarata's legal team, La Viña Zarate & Associates, frowns upon.

Catarata is demanding compensation of P2 million, citing emotional distress, damage to her reputation, and fears for her safety as primary concerns[1]. The documents highlight Escanillas' claims that Catarata was an alleged leader of a communist terrorist group, a label that has been vehemently rejected by Catarata.

At the heart of the legal spat is the allegation that Escanillas' defamatory statements, made during the press briefing on April 30, 2024, tarnished Catarata's image and reputation, driving emotional anguish.

The lawsuit likewise alleges that Escanillas' statements violated Articles 19, 20, 21, 26, and 33 of the Civil Code[1]. In addition, Catarata also accused the Cebu City Police Office of further red-tagging her on Facebook, branding her as the "No. 1 Most Wanted Terrorist Financier in Central Visayas".

"The chilling effect of red-tagging poses a significant challenge for professionals like myself, who choose to engage in development work. I am driven to surpass my fear," Catarata said, speaking about the pressure she faces due to these allegations.

Catarata boasts over two decades of commitment towards agrarian reform, sustainable agriculture, and community development, making notable contributions in both local and international circles. Her accomplishments have garnered acclaim within the development sector.

Prior to this recent dispute, Escanillas also instigated a case against the Community Empowerment Resource Network (Cernet) and 27 individuals, which included Catarata. This earlier case was triggered due to Catarata's association with the Central Visayas Farmer's Development Center (Fardec), which was previously affiliated with Cernet[1].

[1] - Refers to enrichment data about the case, including the underlying allegations and Catarata's reputation in the development sector

1. The government of Cebu City might find itself in the thick of a legal dispute, as Estrella Catarata, a prominent social worker and psychologist, has sued Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas for defamation and red-tagging.
2. The lawsuit against Escanillas also aims to hold accountable the Cebu City Police Office, alleging they further smeared Catarata's name by red-tagging her on Facebook.
3. The government, specifically Escanillas, is accused of making defamatory statements during a press briefing on April 30, 2024, causing emotional distress, damaging Catarata's reputation, and causing fear for her safety.
4. Articles 19, 20, 21, 26, and 33 of the Civil Code are among the provisions cited as violated by Catarata's legal team in the defamation case.
5. Prior to the recent legal battle, Escanillas had previously initiated a case against the Community Empowerment Resource Network (Cernet) and 27 individuals, including Catarata, due to her associations with the Central Visayas Farmer's Development Center (Fardec), which previously worked with Cernet.

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