Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson has rejected claims that the Philippines is under “de facto Martial Law,” saying there is no silencing of critics under the current administration.
Lacson said he disagrees with Rep. Leandro Leviste’s allegation, noting that if Martial Law-like conditions existed, critics would already be facing libel cases.
“Of course not. Malayo. I do not agree,” he said, adding that while he respects Leviste’s courage and principles, he does not share his view this time.
The senator stressed that anyone with nothing to hide should not fear investigations, recalling his own experience of facing baseless accusations for nine years during the Arroyo administration.
“If their charges against you have no basis, no matter how they investigate you, they’ll come up empty-handed. I’ve been there, done that. For nine long years I was subjected to such baseless accusations,” said Lacson, adding he remains “still here, still standing.”IMT
