Senators call for de-escalation after Duterte's 'kill' remarks

Several administration-backed senatorial candidates have responded to former President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial 'kill' remarks by calling for de-escalation of political tensions.

Former Senate President Vicente Sotto III dismissed Duterte's comments as a joke, advising politicians to focus on issues rather than personal attacks and stating that once they start attacking personally, they lose the debate.

Panfilo Lacson urged fellow candidates to avoid negative campaigning and divisive rhetoric during the elections, emphasizing that ongoing conflict is unhelpful to anyone.

Former senator Manny Pacquiao warned that heated exchanges would not benefit the general public, especially those in poverty, urging candidates to leave personal attacks behind.

Incumbent Senator Francis Tolentino also viewed Duterte's comments as a joke and suggested leaving it to proper authorities to determine next steps.

Critics like Rep. France Castro have condemned Duterte's remarks as inappropriate, while Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel expressed concern about potential mental health issues.