Ex-broadcaster Jay Sonza temporarily released after posting bail

A PASAY CITY court on Monday ordered the temporary liberty of former broadcaster Jose Yumang Sonza, Jr., also known as Jay Sonza, after he posted bail for cybercrime charges involving the alleged circulation of fake presidential medical reports.

According to a statement from Mr. Sonza’s lawyer, Mark Kristopher G. Tolentino, Mr. Sonza posted a P10,000 cash bond after the Regional Trial Court Branch 118 in Pasay City clarified that the offense is bailable.

Mr. Sonza stands accused of spreading “fake news” via social media posts that questioned President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s health and capacity to govern.

“According to the Court, the error stemmed from issues with the online platform related to bail processing, and that the issuance of the warrant was not intentional,” Mr. Tolentino said.

“In good faith, and in the interest of moving forward, Manong Jay Sonza and undersigned counsel humbly accept the apology of the Honorable Court — despite the fact that he was unjustly deprived of his liberty for five (5) days,” he said.

The former newsman was arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation last Thursday at his Quezon City residence following the issuance of the arrest warrant. Court records indicate he is charged with Unlawful Means of Publication under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

In a court order on Monday, Presiding Judge Rowena Nieves A. Tan directed the NBI Detention Facility in Muntinlupa to release Mr. Sonza, provided he is not being held for any other lawful cause. His arraignment and pre-trial conference are set for June 3. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking