Showbiz News

Ricardo Cepeda's brother sets up a GoFundMe account to help in his estafa case

By Kristian Eric Javier

Actor Ricardo Cepeda's fraternal twin brother, Robert Go, requests financial help for his brother's legal expenses by setting up a GoFundMe page on his behalf. His goal is to reach USD 30,000 which is P1,680,825. As of this writing, they have garnered USD6,813 or PHP381,715.36.

Ricardo was arrested on October 7, 2023, in a syndicated estafa case in Caloocan City. The actor was an endorser for a sales company at the time. The same company promised an investment scheme that gave a huge percentage of interest. However, after checks started bouncing, agrieved parties filed several estafa cases against people they think are involved, including the actor.

In the GoFundMe page's description, Robert reiterated that his brother was wrongfully accused and said that Ricardo had no knowledge or involvement in the said investment scheme.

“Ricardo's role as an endorser, limited to promoting select products, has unfairly positioned him as the face associated with the company's wrongdoing. Despite his lack of reason to hide, authorities detained him, adding an undeserved layer of difficulty to his situation,” Robert said.

He added that not only did the accusations against his brother have taken an emotional toll on their family, but that it has led to “significant financial strain” on them. He also admits that while Ricardo had savings since he isn't working nor has an income, he has already exhausted it all.

“As he remains in custody in the Philippines until now, with no definite sign that he will be given his day in court, the mounting legal fees further exacerbate his financial challenges and driving him deeper in debt,” he added.

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He also detailed how Ricardo's wife, Marina Benipayo, “works tirelessly” despite her challenges to keep the family together, especially after his and Ricardo's mom needed a triple cardiac bypass and their father suffered a fall.

“While the truth stands firmly on Ric's side, we await the court hearing that will allow him to prove his innocence. With his means of income on indefinite pause, we've initiated this GoFundMe campaign in the hope that others may assist during this trying time,” he continued.

Robert then expressed his hope that the charges against Ricardo would be dropped and that he would be released soon. He then addressed the netizens, saying that he and their family appreciated the time, prayers, and any contribution made to the fund.

“Your support, whether financial or through kind words and sharing, will help us spread the word,” he ended.