TV journalist Athena Imperial has filed a complaint for alleged acts of lasciviousness and gender-based sexual harassment against former colleague Nico Waje.
According to documents obtained by The Philippine Star on Wednesday, the complaint reportedly cites violations under Article 336 of the Revised Penal Code and Republic Act No. 11313, also known as the Safe Spaces Act.
In a statement released through APS Law, lawyer Aloi Renz P. Santos confirmed that the GMA reporter, who’s formally identified as Athena Mae D. Imperial-Rodriguez, has already filed the “appropriate complaint before the proper authorities.”
The law firm said Imperial decided to come forward not only for herself, but also to encourage others who may still be afraid to speak up.
APS Law also disclosed that another former network employee separately filed a complaint involving similar allegations.
In her personal statement, Imperial admitted that pursuing legal action was “not an easy decision,” saying it took “time, reflection, and support” before she found the courage to seek legal remedies.
She added that she hopes the case will help promote safer workplaces and greater accountability in the industry.
“I am speaking not only for myself, but also for those who, for different reasons, are still unable or afraid to speak for themselves. I believe that incidents of this nature can no longer be ignored, minimized, or tolerated in any workplace or industry,” Imperial was quoted as saying.
Waje has yet to issue a public response regarding the complaint.
