Former TV Host Jay Sonza Arrested in Manila Over False Medical Claims About President Marcos

Key facts

• Jay Sonza arrested Thursday night at a house in Project 8, Quezon City.
• Pasay City RTC Branch 118 issued a non-bailable warrant for Sonza.
• Charges under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code and Section 6 of RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act).
• Arrest carried out by NBI-OCD with NBI-CCD and NBI-TID.
• NBI-CCD cyber-surveillance in January 2026 identified Sonza as a spreader of false medical info.
• Evidence preserved via digital forensics: authenticated screenshots and tracking of reposted content.
• Sonza's counsel Atty. Mark Tolentino en route to NBI Pasay to ensure rights of the senior citizen.

Arrest in Quezon City

The National Bureau of Investigation arrested former television host Jay Sonza on Thursday night at a residence in Project 8, Quezon City, on charges of disseminating false medical information about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Operatives from the NBI Organized Crime Division, in coordination with the Cybercrime Division and Technical Intelligence Division, executed the warrant issued by Pasay City Regional Trial Court Branch 118. The warrant states the offense is non-bailable, meaning Sonza cannot post bail pending trial.

Charges Under Revised Penal Code and Cybercrime Law

Sonza faces charges of unlawful use of means of publication and unlawful utterances under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, as amended by Republic Act 10951, in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The NBI said the charges stem from Sonza's alleged circulation of unverified and misleading medical information about the President. Though the original posts were deleted or restricted, the NBI preserved evidence through digital forensic methods, including authenticated screenshots and tracking of reposted content.

Evidence Gathered Through Cyber-Surveillance

Earlier case buildup and cyber-surveillance operations conducted by the NBI Cybercrime Division in January 2026 identified Sonza as among those who allegedly spread the false information. The NBI stated that the preserved materials formed part of the evidence submitted to the Department of Justice, which led to the filing of charges and eventual issuance of the warrant. The agency emphasized that the digital forensic evidence was critical in building the case.

Sonza's Response and Legal Counsel

Upon his arrest, Sonza expressed readiness to go through due process, noting he had been prepared to post bail earlier but found no warrant at that time. "I was ready to post my bail earlier, but there was no warrant yet, so I am surprised they have a warrant tonight," he told GMA News. He questioned the non-bailable designation, saying, "It was supposed to be bailable, it says here, non-bailable. You know the process." His counsel, Atty. Mark Tolentino, stated they were en route to the NBI in Pasay City to ensure Sonza's rights are respected, especially as a senior citizen.

Broader Context: Crackdown on Disinformation

The arrest underscores the Philippine government's intensified efforts to combat disinformation, particularly regarding the health of President Marcos Jr. The NBI's use of cyber-surveillance and digital forensics reflects a growing reliance on technology to track and prosecute online falsehoods. The case also highlights the legal framework combining the Revised Penal Code with the Cybercrime Prevention Act to address digital offenses.

What Comes Next

Sonza will be processed at the NBI headquarters in Pasay City, where his legal team will monitor proceedings. Atty. Tolentino vowed to watch every step and act if any rights are violated, stating, "We will not allow any abuse." The non-bailable nature of the warrant means Sonza will remain in custody until a court determines otherwise, potentially setting the stage for a protracted legal battle.

The bottom line

• Jay Sonza arrested on non-bailable warrant for spreading false medical information about President Marcos.
• Charges combine Revised Penal Code and Cybercrime Prevention Act, reflecting a dual legal approach.
• NBI used cyber-surveillance and digital forensics to preserve evidence even after posts were deleted.
• Sonza's counsel emphasizes protection of his rights as a senior citizen during legal proceedings.
• The case signals intensified government action against online disinformation in the Philippines.