Cops probe online activities of slain pro-Marcos vlogger

The Philippine National Police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the killing of Alicia Lipata, a prominent pro-Marcos vlogger who was shot dead along with her partner in Caloocan City on Friday morning. The incident has sparked renewed scrutiny over the role of social media in political activism and the safety of public figures who engage in politically charged content. General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., head of the Philippine National Police, announced that the agency is examining all aspects of Lipata's online activities, particularly whether they were linked to the crime. Lipata, widely known online under the name “Mima Alicia,” operated a YouTube channel called “Alicia Comments” that amassed 362,000 subscribers. Her content often aligned with the policies and rhetoric of Bongbong Marcos, the son of former President Ferdinand Marcos. According to initial police reports, two motorcyclists ambushed Lipata and her partner near their home, resulting in her death. Her partner survived the attack but was hospitalized. Neighbors intervened and transported both victims to a nearby medical facility. The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) was instructed to investigate all potential leads, including Lipata’s engagement with social media platforms. A spokesperson for the NCRPO, Major Hazel Asilo, noted that Lipata was identified as a “BBM loyalist” due to her social media posts supporting Bongbong Marcos. This designation underscores the political nature of her online presence and suggests that her activities may have drawn attention from unknown adversaries. The Caloocan City Police Station is leading the investigation, working alongside other law enforcement units to gather evidence and trace the identities of the suspects. An autopsy has been conducted on the victim, and its results will be used as part of the ongoing inquiry. Authorities have emphasized the need for confidentiality during the early stages of the probe to preserve the integrity of the case. Acting district director of the Northern Police District (NPD), Brigadier General Benliner Capili, confirmed that the Special Investigation Task Group “MIMA” is actively pursuing leads related to the murder. The group is tasked with ensuring that the investigation remains focused and effective. The NPD has also pledged to maintain open communication with Lipata’s family, providing regular updates and offering support throughout the process. Police officials have urged members of the public to come forward with any information that might assist in identifying the perpetrators. Contact details for the investigating officer, Police Staff Sergeant Romnick Laceda, have been made available through local police stations. All tips are guaranteed to remain confidential, encouraging community participation without fear of retaliation. General Nartatez reiterated the PNP’s commitment to upholding the rights of citizens to free speech while simultaneously holding accountable those who resort to violence. He stated that the police force is dedicated to ensuring that such acts of aggression are met with swift and decisive action. The incident highlights the risks faced by individuals who use digital platforms to express political views, especially in a climate where such expressions can provoke hostility.