Senator Sotto distinguishes between 'alias' and 'fake name' in VP trial

Senator-judge Vicente “Tito” Sotto III clarified on Tuesday that a name can only be legally considered an alias if an actual, identifiable person uses it, arguing that names with no real individual behind them should instead be classified as fictitious or fake.

Sotto made the manifestation as the Senate impeachment court continued its inquiry into Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged misuse of confidential funds.

The issue arose after acknowledgment receipts submitted to the court surfaced featuring unusual signatories—some resembling popular snack brands, fruits, local expressions, and politicians—including names such as "Mary Grace Piattos," "Andy Lim," "Miggy Mango," and "Kristine Applegate Estrada."

"If there is a person behind the alias, then it is an alias. If there is no person behind the name, it is a fictitious name or a fake name," Sotto explained, citing Republic Act No. 6085, the legal framework regulating aliases in the Philippines.

He noted that under RA 6085, pseudonyms are strictly restricted and generally permitted only for literary, cinema, television, and entertainment purposes.

Sotto said he raised the point after reviewing the court's official journal from the previous session to address media coverage regarding the cross-examination between Senator-judge Robin Padilla and private prosecutor Mae Divinagracia.

Setting the record straight against news reports claiming Divinagracia was repeatedly cut off and prevented from answering, Sotto clarified that the official journal shows she answered most of Padilla's questions. While she was briefly interrupted while discussing RA 6085, Sotto noted that the court ultimately allowed her to respond. -Paraluman News