Photo credit: Act Teachers Party-List

France Castro, House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Partylist Representative, has issued a strong response to Rep. Paolo Duterte's recent statement regarding the filing of a criminal complaint against former President Rodrigo Duterte.

In her statement, Rep. Castro emphasized the distinction between legitimate criticism and death threats, highlighting the importance of safeguarding the lives and safety of individuals.

In her remarks, Rep. Castro questioned the apparent blame placed on her, despite being the one who faced threats and red-tagging. She explained that her decision to file a grave threats case against former President Rodrigo Duterte was a measure to protect herself, her family, and her colleagues.

She expressed concerns about the dangers posed by death threats and red-tagging when aired on television, stressing that such actions should not be tolerated as they contribute to a state of impunity.

Rep. Castro drew a clear line between legitimate criticism of public officials, which she acknowledged as valid, and the actions of former President Duterte, which she categorized as threats rather than criticism.

She cited the "onion skin doctrine," often used in libel cases, as not providing a license to issue death threats. Furthermore, she pointed out that this doctrine should not diminish the right of individuals to life and safety, which includes freedom from fear.

"Iba ang criticism sa death threat," Rep. Castro stated.