A lawyer for former Miss Universe Catriona Gray said on Saturday she is coordinating with authorities for the arrest of people who spread online an alleged topless photo of the beauty queen.
"We are actively coordinating with authorities to hold accountable whoever is behind this scheme and face penal sanctions accordingly. We will likewise take legal action against those involved in the manufacture and publication of said photo," said lawyer Joji Alonso, legal counsel for Gray, in a statement issued to the media on Saturday, July 18.
Alonso said it has come to her attention that the alleged topless photo of Gray has been spreading online and a certain tabloid will be releasing it.
"We want to inform the public that the photo is fake and digitally altered," she said. "We strongly denounce this vicious attempt to tarnish the good name of Ms. Gray."
The fake photo circulated at the time when Gray premiered a music video "We're In This Together" released under Cornerstone Music which aims to raise funds for poor children of Tondo, Manila.
Gray performs the song in the music video with her boyfriend actor Sam Milby.
"At a time when fake news is prevalent, we firmly urge the public to be discerning and critical of what they see and share on social media," said Alonso.