Social media personality and food vlogger Deo Jarito Balbuena, better known as “Diwata ng Paresan,” has sought help from ‘Raffy Tulfo in Action’ (RTIA) after being wrongfully arrested due to what appears to be a case of mistaken identity and police negligence.
According to Diwata, police officers from the Warrant Section of Trece Martires City arrived at his home in General Trias, Cavite, on October 7 to serve a warrant of arrest issued by a Mandaluyong court. The warrant was for a violation of Ordinance No. 628, S-2016, also known as the “Anti-Street Obstruction Ordinance.”
“Wala akong alam sa kaso, bigla nila akong kinuha,” Diwata said emotionally on RTIA. He was detained briefly before securing release after posting bail.
Upon investigation by Tulfo’s team, it was revealed that the warrant stemmed from a March incident in Mandaluyong City, where five men were apprehended for drinking on the street—a violation of the said ordinance. One of the men allegedly presented a fake TIN ID bearing Diwata’s full name, Deo Jarito Balbuena, as his identification.
When none of the violators paid their fines, the Mandaluyong Police filed the case in court, resulting in the issuance of a warrant against the name on record — Diwata’s.
In a live interview, Patrolman Johary Bogagong, the arresting officer, admitted that he never personally verified the identity of the suspect and relied solely on the ID presented during the March incident.
“Hindi po siya ‘yung nakita kong lalaki noong araw na ‘yon,” the officer confessed, confirming that the real offender had used a fake ID — making Diwata an unwitting victim of identity theft.
Visibly emotional, Diwata said he sought Tulfo’s help not only to clear his name but also to prevent others from experiencing the same ordeal.
“Ayaw ko nang mangyari ito sa iba. Wala akong kasalanan pero nakakulong ako. Nakakahiya at masakit,” he said.
Senator Tulfo, known for his strong advocacy for justice and accountability, vowed to take legislative action.
“Maghahain ako ng Senate resolution in aid of legislation para mapatibay ang protocol ng mga pulis bago sila magpatupad ng warrant. Dapat siguraduhin nila na tama ang tao bago sila kumilos,” he declared.
Following the episode, Diwata received an outpouring of support online, with netizens rallying behind him and condemning the negligence that led to his wrongful arrest.
Known for his viral food stall and inspirational videos, Diwata has long been admired for his perseverance and humility. This latest incident, he said, serves as a reminder of the importance of identity verification and accountability among law enforcement authorities.
