The Philippine Online Chronicles

American pop singing sensation Lady Gaga is currently facing a lawsuit for allegedly misrepresenting the proceeds of wristbands sold to benefit earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan.

Michigan-based 1-800-LAW-FIRM filed the case on Friday, alleging lack of transparency on whether the funds raised from sales of “We Pray For Japan” wristbands were 100 percent allocated to its beneficiaries.

The complaint stated that sales tax and a shipping charge of USD3.99 per item were added.

"While we commend Lady Gaga for her philanthropic efforts, we want to ensure that claims that 'all proceeds will be donated to Japan's earthquake relief efforts' are in fact true," said Alyson Oliver, one of the complainants, in a press release.

The lawsuit wants “class-action status” and refunds for the buyers of the wristbands.

Lady Gaga released the wristbands after the earthquake and tsunami struck Japan. These items were sold at USD5 each, advertising that the proceeds will be fully given to the victims of the calamity.

The singer responded to the lawsuit, saying the accusations were “misguided” and “without merit.”

“This misguided lawsuit is without merit and unfortunately takes attention away from the kind deeds of the fans around the world who are supporting the people of Japan," said Holly Shakoor, Lady Gaga's spokesperson, in an email to international news wire AFP.

"The entire USD5 donation made with the purchase of each bracelet is going to support the disaster relief. No profit is being made on shipping costs. Sales tax charges were made in accordance with local legal requirements," she added.