Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla (PNA file photo by Yancy Lim)
MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday ordered a thorough investigation into the possible liability of ex-House of Representative Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez over his statements against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
"I have ordered an investigation on the statements of Congressman Pantaleon Alvarez to determine whether it has risen to the level of Sedition, Inciting to Sedition or even Rebellion," Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a statement.
"As a former lawmaker myself, I would like to remind Congressman Alvarez to act in accordance to the highest standards of ethics, morality and nationalism, and avoid remarks unbecoming of a member of the House of Representatives," he added.
Camiguin Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo earlier urged the DOJ to investigate Alvarez, for what he described as the latter’s “seditious statement” and file the necessary charges.
In remarks before his constituents in Tagum City, the Davao lawmaker urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines to withdraw its support for President Marcos, presumably to head off a conflict with China over the West Philippine Sea.
Alvarez said he was merely exercising his right to free speech. (PNA)
