Vice President Sara Duterte on Friday underscored the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) support for the public’s right to speak out, saying the Marcos administration must respect dissent and refrain from overreacting to criticism.
Duterte made the remarks when asked by reporters about claims that she would join an upcoming Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally, however, she clarified she has no scheduled appearance in any local rally, noting that her public gatherings are usually held overseas.
She issued a call to the administration to respect the right of the people to freedom of speech.
“I commit and I call on the administration, the government, to respect the right of the people to freedom of speech and expression. Huwag masyado silang maging balat-sibuyas,” she said.
Duterte also dismissed speculations linking her to a separate September 21 rally, saying she has no involvement in that event.
She, however, criticized what she described as attempts to weaponize investigations to intimidate critics.
“It’s the same case inciting to sedition and I think it’s an open investigation until now. Ginagamit nilang panakot,” she said.
“Dissent is part of democracy and good governance. Hindi mo pwedeng pigilan yun dahil karapatan yan ng mga tao,”she added.
The vice president stressed that even statements critical of the administration should be allowed and respected.
“Kung hindi man pabor sa administration ang sinasabi ng mga tao, dapat respetuhin nila yun,” she stressed.
Addressing people reportedly planning to join the rally including retired generals and former uniformed personnel, Duterte said the OVP fully supports those exercising their constitutional rights.
“To all Filipinos who want to express their thoughts, feelings, opinions, or advice for the administration or the government, the Office of the Vice President supports you in using your right to free speech and expression,” she said.
When asked whether she fears a possible sedition case, Duterte responded bluntly.
“Actually, inaantay ko lang kung kailan nila ako ikulong. But apparently hanggang ngayon hindi pa nila mabuo kung ano ang strategy nila dahil wala silang ebidensya,” she said.
When questioned about concerns involving Ombudsman Samuel Martires and ongoing investigations from Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) issues to cases revived by former senator Antonio Trillanes, the vice president said she remains unshaken.
“Natatakot? Hindi. Nakahanda naman ako sa posibleng mangyari sa akin,” she said.
