MANILA, Philippines — Broadcast journalist Athena Imperial filed criminal complaints Wednesday against former colleague Nico Waje before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office, accusing him of acts of lasciviousness and violations of the Safe Spaces Act.
Imperial, a senior correspondent for GMA Integrated News, personally appeared before prosecutors with her legal counsel to file complaints for alleged violations of Article 336 of the Revised Penal Code and Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act, which penalizes gender-based sexual harassment.
In an official statement obtained by PEP.ph, Imperial’s counsel, Aloi Renz Santos of APS Law, said the camp intends to let the legal process move forward without public discussion of the case’s merits.
“This case is now before the proper forum. We will therefore allow the process to take its course and will not discuss the merits beyond what is necessary to protect our client’s rights,” the statement read.
The law firm also said Imperial decided to pursue legal action not only on her own behalf, but also for others who may have experienced similar incidents.
“Ms. Imperial-Rodriguez comes forward not only for herself, but also as an advocate for those who cannot yet speak for themselves. She believes that incidents of this nature can no longer be ignored, minimized, or tolerated in any workplace, profession, or industry,” the statement added.
APS Law also disclosed that other complainant has allegedly filed separate complaints against Waje.
“We also note, without further comment and out of respect for privacy and due process, that a separate complaint has likewise been filed by another individual. APS Law respects the rights of all parties. At the same time, we will firmly pursue all remedies available under law, guided by evidence, ethics, and proper procedure,” the statement read.
Imperial later issued a personal statement through her lawyer as released by GMA News Online.
“This was not an easy decision. It took time, reflection, and support from the people closest to me before I found the courage to come forward. I am speaking not only for myself, but also for those who, for different reasons, are still unable or afraid to speak for themselves. I believe that incidents of this nature can no longer be ignored, minimized, or tolerated in any workplace or industry,” she said.
Imperial also said she intends to let legal authorities handle the matter without public speculation.
“At this point, I choose to place my trust in the legal process and in the institutions tasked to handle these matters properly and fairly. Out of respect for the ongoing proceedings, I will refrain from discussing further details and ask the public to allow the proper authorities to do their work without speculation or prejudgment,” she said.
“I remain hopeful that, through lawful processes and honest conversations, safer spaces and greater accountability may continue to develop for everyone,” she ended.
Imperial first gained attention in 2011 after winning Miss Philippines Earth and later being named Miss Earth-Water before transitioning to broadcast journalism. She has since become one of GMA News’ field correspondents covering national events.
Waje, a former GMA Integrated News reporter, has yet to issue a public statement regarding the complaints. His social media accounts also appeared inaccessible as of Wednesday evening.
Waje has yet to issue a public statement regarding the complaints.
