GMA reporter Athena Imperial sues ex-colleague Nico Waje for acts of lasciviousness

Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!

Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.

Visit Suniway.ph to learn

MANILA, Philippines — GMA-7 reporter Athena Imperial has filed an acts of lasciviousness case against her former GMA-7 colleague Nico Waje on Wednesday, May 13. 

The STAR's Nathalie Tomada obtained documents related to Imperial’s complaint against Waje, who is charged for alleged acts of lasciviousness under Article 336 of the Revised Penal Code, as well as gender-based sexual harassment under Republic Act No. 11313.

Imperial’s counsel, Aloi Renz P. Santos of APS Law, issued a statement on behalf of his client. The document identified the reporter as Athena Mae D. Imperial-Rodriguez.

“This case is now before the proper forum. We will therefore allow the process to take its course and will not discuss the merits beyond what is necessary to protect our client’s rights,” APS Law said.

“Ms. Imperial-Rodriguez comes forward not only for herself, but also as an advocate for those who cannot yet speak for themselves. She believes that incidents of this nature can no longer be ignored, minimized, or tolerated in any workplace, profession, or industry,” the firm added. 

The reporter, in a statement sent to the STAR, said that filing the case against Waje was not an “easy decision.” She took “time, reflection and support” from the people closest to her before she found the courage to proceed with it. 

“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 said. 

She added that she will refrain from discussing further details related to the case “out of respect for the ongoing proceedings.” She also asked the public to refrain from speculations and prejudgment and allow the authorities to do their work. 

Imperial ended that she hopes for “safer spaces and greater accountability” will develop through “lawful processes and honest conversations.” 

Waje has not responded to the complaint as of press time. 

RELATED: Imperial crowned Miss Philippines Earth 2011