On Monday, two GMA Network 'independent contractors' deny that they sexually abused actor Sandro Muhlach.
Richard Cruz and Jojo Nones appeared before the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media and denied the allegations against them. The two accused read their prepared statement in front of Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada and Senator Robin Padilla, the chairman of the committee.
"Hindi po kami gumawa ng kahit anong sexual harassment or abuse laban kay Sandro Muhlach," Richard Cruz said during the hearing.
"Sa pagkakataong ito sa harap ninyong lahat, mariing tinatanggi po namin ang lahat ng mapanirang akusasyon na ito laban sa amin," he added.
Cruz asserted that, with their long tenure in the TV industry, they have never been involved in any abuse. He denied the accusations of abuse directed at them.
He also noted that they have been in television for approximately 30 years, and before this incident, they made significant contributions to the industry through their involvement in award-winning and top-rated television shows and series.
They recognize that, as contractors, any mistake could cause GMA Network to dismiss them and cost them their jobs.
The two also clarified that they are not GMA Network executives, contrary to online assertions. They do not possess any power or influence within the network or over its artists.
All of these statements were seconded by Jojo Nones and admitted that they are gay, but reiterated that they are not abusers.
"Sa huli kami rin po ay humihiling ng hustisya. Mabigyan sana ng hustisya ang malisyosong pagbibintang sa amin," Nones said.
"Kaya po naming mapatunayan sa korte o sa piskalya na wala po kaming kasalanan," he added.
They then asked the public not to judge or condemn them as if they were convicted criminals.
The two accused refused to answer the Senate's questions and instead requested an executive session, which was promptly held.
The two also urged Sandro Muhlach to tell the truth.
"Wala kaming ginawang masama sa’yo at alam mo ‘yan sa puso mo. Hindi pa huli ang lahat na magsabi ng totoo," said Nones.
