MANILA, Philippines— Vice President Sara Duterte warned President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration on Friday against using sedition charges to intimidate critics.
Duterte issued the warning ahead of a rally scheduled for the weekend, organized by Iglesia ni Cristo and other groups. She highlighted the use of “inciting to sedition” as a potential tool to suppress dissent.
In a statement, Duterte opposed what she described as tactics targeting critics. The warning came after recent sedition charges against Cavite Rep. Kiko Barzaga, a known supporter of the Duterte family. She questioned the government’s intentions in filing the charges.
Duterte emphasized that citizens have the right to express dissent. The Marcos administration has not responded to her remarks. Authorities continue monitoring the situation as the rally approaches.