MANILA – Actor Raymart Santiago has strongly denied allegations made by Estrella “Inday” Barretto, matriarch of the Barretto family, that he abused his ex-wife Claudine Barretto.

Inday made the claims during an interview with showbiz reporter Ogie Diaz on his YouTube channel, alleging that Raymart physically and emotionally harmed Claudine, that their son Santino witnessed the abuse, and that Raymart took properties originally intended for their children.

In response, Raymart, through Calleja Law, released a statement posted by Diaz on social media, calling Inday’s claims “untruthful and slanderous.” The statement also criticized Claudine for “repeatedly exploiting social media and sought recourse through trial by publicity” against him.

Raymart’s lawyers said Inday’s frustrations stemmed from a conjugal property Claudine sold three years ago without his knowledge, and emphasized that Raymart does not wish to engage in disputes over any irregularities Claudine may have committed.

The legal team also cited a September 2023 gag order from the Mandaluyong City Family Court, which Raymart has reportedly complied with, urging Claudine and her family to respect the law for the sake of their children.

“Let this be a final warning that any utterances in contravention of the law shall be dealt with before the appropriate forum to protect our client’s rights and to preserve his interests,” the statement added.

Raymart and Claudine married in 2006 and filed for annulment in 2013. Santino is their only biological child, though Claudine later adopted Sabina, Quia, and Noah.