Not a few people howled in protest against the excessive news coverage and attention given by one broadcasting network to the TV host who is contracted by their noontime show.
His mauling took prime time and space at the expense of more significant news like the peace pact with the MILF, the pork barrel scandal and ongoing post-Yolanda rehabilitation work.
Then again, Navarro’s ordeal in all its sordid details was a breather of sorts from the national tragedy that was Yolanda.
But it’s certainly not as welcome and upbeat as the signing of the peace accord between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and on a smaller scale, a Manny Pacquiao ring victory.
Navarro’s tale also has a Cebu connection since the TV host’s alleged chief assailant, businessman Cedric Lee, tried to persuade Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III to revive a proposed waste management facility in the controversial Balili property.
As the governor himself pointed out, that proposal didn’t pan out because the Balili property is under investigation and is evidence in a graft case against former governor Gwendolyn Garcia.
(There was also that titillating detail about Lee fathering the child of Cebuana actress/singer Vina Morales.)
Still, the Navarro tale does offer practical advice to men with raging testosterone levels who don’t consider the ramifications of pressing their attentions on a woman.
He may have been invited to the woman’s condo, but once gestures of intimacy are met with a “no”, any amorous action after that can be legally and morally called an act of rape.
Second thing to remember, is that, unless it is rigged and manipulated by fancy computer effects, the camera usually never lies.
The government requirement for condominiums, hotels and other commercial establishments to set up security cameras does serve well in monitoring criminal activities and other misdeeds committed within their premises.
How Navarro’s ordeal eventually works out is anyone’s guess.
As with all telenovelas and sitcoms, each day of its coverage will have to end with the cliffhanger of abangan ang susunod na kabanata.