MANILA, Philippines — Manila Rep. Bienvenido "Benny" Abante Jr. on Friday asked the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into bloggers who allegedly spread false information linking him to alleged inappropriate touching of umbrella girls at a golf course in Antipolo City.
Branding the allegations below the belt, Abante said that while he has long tolerated attacks against him, the latest claims have crossed the line.
"I have been very kind toward those attacking me. Of course, we are congressmen, and you cannot expect everyone to like you," according to the Manila lawmaker.
"But when what they are doing to you is already below the belt, this should really be given closure," he added.
The congressman went to the NBI to seek an investigation into the viral posts, which identified him as the pastor allegedly barred from golf courses in Antipolo for inappropriately touching women.
Denying any connection to the incident, the veteran legislator said that he did not play golf in Antipolo and that another person was likely involved but his name was dragged into the controversy.
Five to 10 bloggers could be behind the posts, Abante said as he left it to the NBI to identify those responsible.
He said the allegations amounted to lies and wrongdoing that warranted an investigation to finally put the matter to rest.
