Senatorial Candidate Atty. Sonny Matula (WPP)
Labor leader turned senatorial candidate Atty. Sonny Matula has strongly condemned former President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent statement suggesting the elimination of 15 incumbent senators to make way for his preferred candidates.
“Para bang tinatakot na niya ang mga senador na siyang makikinig at hahatol sa impeachment case ng kanyang anak.” Matula emphasizes that “such remarks are not funny but pose a serious threat to the nation’s democratic institutions and the safety of its public officials.”
“Joking about killing senators is utterly irresponsible and dangerous,” Matula stated. “This is not a matter to be taken lightly; it reflects a mindset of an arrogant king in the dark ages that ignores and undermines the rule of law — it incites violence against duly elected officials.”
During a proclamation rally for the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) senatorial slate, Duterte quipped about creating vacancies in the Senate through violent means to accommodate his allies. Matula warns that such statements, even if made in jest, can erode public trust in governmental institutions and embolden unlawful actions.
“This rhetoric is a stark reminder of the previous administration’s war on drugs, which led to the tragic loss of thousands of lives,” Matula added. Police reports show that over 6,000 Filipinos, predominantly from urban poor communities, were killed during that campaign.”
In additon, the Philippines has been listed by the International Trade Union Confederation as one of the Worst Countries for Workers for eight straight years after 68 trade unionists were killed during Duterte’s term as chief executive.
Matula further highlighted the gravity of Duterte’s remarks, especially in light of the ongoing political climate. “This threat is even more alarming considering that his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, is currently facing an impeachment trial in the Senate,” he noted. “Such statements could be perceived as an attempt to intimidate or influence the proceedings.”
The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Sara Duterte on charges including culpable violation of the constitution, graft and corruption. The Senate trial is scheduled to commence after Congress reconvenes in June. A two-thirds majority
