The first hearing for the cybercrime case filed by the Kapisanan ng Social Media Broadcasters ng Pilipinas, Inc. (KSMBPI) against celebrity couple Vice Ganda and Ion Perez took place on October 16 at the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.
In response to the lawsuit, Vice Ganda and Ion Perez submitted a counter-affidavit, as reported by SMNI News.
KSMBPI initiated the legal action on September 11, accusing the couple of violating Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, particularly Section 6 of Article 201, and the Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
This was in relation to their “obscene act” during a segment called ‘Isip Bata’ on ‘It’s Showtime’ on July 25, where they were seen licking icing off their fingers.
In their joint counter-affidavit, Vice Ganda and Ion explained the incident and requested the dismissal of the case, arguing that their actions did not constitute obscene or immoral behavior, as alleged in the complaint based on Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code.
Attorney Mark Tolentino, the lawyer representing KSMBPI, stated that they would study the counter-affidavit from the opposing party and prepare a reply accordingly. The case remains under legal scrutiny as it continues to unfold in the court.