Acidre warns Duterte remark has legal consequences

Lawmaker Jude Acidre warned that former President Rodrigo Duterte's remark about killing senators could have legal consequences, as threatening public officials is a crime under Philippine law.

Acidre specified that such threats could be classified as inciting to sedition or grave threats.

Duterte made the remark during a political rally, suggesting the elimination of senators to create openings for his supported candidates, and also mentioned using a bomb.

Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong stated that death threats, even when presented as a joke, should not be normalized, especially when coming from individuals with influence like a former president.

Adiong cautioned that followers might interpret such statements as serious, making it difficult to discern jokes from genuine threats.

Duterte's political party urged supporters to vote for their senatorial candidates, potentially to block a future impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Acidre emphasized that threats of violence undermine security and foster a culture of violence.