By Nycel Jane Dela
Mayor Dante Rizal A. Eslabon of the Municipality of Sigma questioned the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) for repeatedly defending two controversial Baskog Radyo anchors without knowing the issues or personalities.
In an open letter, Eslabon questioned the NUJP statement dated August 7, 2026 that condemned the string of libel and estafa cases filed against Jay “Papang Jay” Lavapiez and his wife India “Mamang India” Lavapiez.
According to NUJP, the cases including libel are intended to intimidate and burden the Lavapiez couple. The statement was in line with NUJP’s long standing policy to decriminalize libel and cyber libel.
But Eslabon disputed the characterization and urged NUJP to independently examine the programs and media practices of the Lavapiez couple.
Eslabon specifically asked if the NUJP actually investigated the alleged conduct of the Lavapiez couple and the issues involved prior to issuing supportive statements that defended the Lavapiez couple.
Eslabon alleged that Baskog Radyo’s coverage has disproportionately focused on Sigma, his administration, his allies, and individuals associated with him.
Eslabon also raised concerns over what he described as repeated ridicule and body-shaming during radio broadcasts by the Lavapiez couple.
In the open letter, Eslabon emphasized that he recognizes the importance of press freedom but maintained that journalists remain subject to legal and ethical standards.
Eslabon pointed out that public officials like himself should likewise have the right to defend their reputation when the media has crossed the line.
Eslabon asked NUJP to conduct an “unbiased review” of what was said by the Lavapiez couple from 2024 to the present. A transcript was also provided for NUJP’s reference.
Eslabon’s open letter was delivered to Edalyn Acta, operations manager of The Capiz Times and the interim chairperson of NUJP-Capiz Chapter. In turn, Acta forwarded Eslabon’s open letter to NUJP in Metro Manila.
The Capiz chapter of NUJP was previously deactivated and currently awaits a formal election after a recent general assembly.
On the other hand, the Lavapiez husband and wife only submitted their membership forms to NUJP in Metro Manila last week.
Aside from libel and estafa cases, the Lavapiez husband and wife are allegedly linked to the Capiz investment scam led by Don Chiyuto. (Photos courtesy of LGU Sigma & NUJP)
