The murder of vlogger Alicia “Mima Alicia” Lipata was immediately weaponized by many anti-Duterte personalities. Before investigators had even pieced together the facts, the verdict was already out in their minds: “DDS did it.”

There was no evidence. No arrests. No established motive. Just politics.

For days, social media was flooded with claims that her death was proof of supposed “DDS violence.” Political opponents and partisan commentators eagerly used the tragedy to demonize an entire group of people based solely on speculation.

Now, police say the investigation points in a different direction. According to the PNP chief, the alleged motive being pursued is a multimillion-peso debt, not the victim’s political commentaries. Authorities have also identified alleged masterminds and are building their case.

Whether the case ultimately holds up in court is for the justice system to determine. But one thing is already clear—those who confidently blamed the DDS had no factual basis for doing so.This is the danger of turning every crime into a political talking point. When ideology takes precedence over evidence, the search for truth becomes secondary.

Public opinion is manipulated, innocent people are vilified, and genuine justice is overshadowed by partisan narratives. The same people who constantly preach about fighting disinformation should be the first to admit when they jumped to conclusions.

If they demand accountability from others for spreading false accusations, they should be willing to hold themselves to the same standard.A murder deserves a thorough investigation—not instant political exploitation.

Justice is served by evidence, not by hashtags, assumptions, or political bias. Until the courts render judgment, every claim should be treated with caution, and every accusation should be backed by facts rather than partisan convenience.