CEBU CITY—A foundation based in this city has come to the rescue of a sickly 47-year-old man from Catbalogan City, Samar who found himself in legal trouble after engaging in vlogging.

EMERGENCY responders carry Selver Sapetin to an ambulance that transported him to Bacoor City, Cavite to face a string of charges filed against him. (Screengrab)
The Semi di Speranza Foundation (SDSF) has decided to grant college scholarships to the two children of Selver Sapetin after learning about his current situation.
According to the foundation, Sapetin is grappling with a series of profound personal and legal challenges.
“He battles severe health issues and faces a contentious legal battle. Diagnosed with severe gouty arthritis, vertigo, and a cyst on his kidney, Sapetin’s health has deteriorated significantly over the past year, leaving him bedridden and in constant pain,” the foundation headed by its founder Chili Tita Cabatingan said.
Sapetin’s wife is a high school teacher and the family’s breadwinner.
In a bid to support his family, Sapetin turned to vlogging, launching a YouTube channel called Kuya Waray Vlog.
Through his channel, Sapetin tackled issues concerning overseas foreign workers who have been scammed via social media. His efforts have garnered a following, but his recent work has led to legal trouble.
On August 21, Sapetin was transported by an ambulance from his home to Bacoor City where he faces four counts of cyber libel and unjust vexation. The charges stemmed from an incident where Sapetin allegedly read a comment by a viewer of his vlog disparaging a rival group of vloggers.
The subject of the comment filed charges against Sapetin, alleging that it incited harm and defamation.
Sapetin countered that he did not know the complainant and had no intention of causing harm. He was detained at the Catbalogan Police Station.
The foundation said that Sapetin’s 77-year-old mother, struggling with her own health issues, had to mortgage her property to pay her son’s bail of P42,000.
“The Sapetin family’s situation is dire. With mounting medical bills, ongoing legal expenses, and the financial strain of supporting five children, the family’s resources are stretched thin. Selver Sapetin has made a heartfelt appeal for assistance, reaching out to the public for support during this incredibly difficult period,” the foundation said.
In his appeal, Sapetin emphasized the critical need for help not only to manage his legal defense but also to provide for his family’s daily needs.
“I am reaching out to anyone who can lend a hand,” he said in a statement sent through the foundation. “My family and I are in a very tough spot right now. Any support, no matter how small, would mean the world to us.”
SDSFI said those who wish to extend assistance may reach out to Sapetin through mobile number 09267038398.