Trillanes files fresh raps vs 18 ‘bagmen’

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March 24, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV yesterday filed cyberlibel complaints against 18 alleged bagmen and hosts of a television network.

Charges were filed against 18 men who claimed they had delivered kickback money to state officials.

Also charged were Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) hosts Byron “Banat By” Cristobal, Oliver “Coach Oli” Cristobal, “Master Judea” and Arjay “Pareng Arjay” Piodina.

Filed before the Department of Justice, Trillanes’ complaints cite the 18 men’s bribery allegations, as well as their lawyer’s Feb. 24 press conference and interview with broadcast journalist Jessica Soho.

Trillanes also cited a March 5 media briefing and a recent SMNI interview, wherein “their narratives evolved.”