Davao City First District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte on Monday strongly criticized the government over the plunder and corruption charges filed against former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson, describing it as part of a disturbing trend targeting administration critics.
The charges, filed with the Office of the Ombudsman by the group Warriors ti Narvacan, Inc., led by lawyer Estelita Cordero, have sparked backlash from Duterte, who questioned the motives behind the move.
“Now, anyone who dares to speak against the administration gets charged. So this is what they call the new normal in government?” Duterte said in a statement.
He expressed concern that the administration appears to be weaponizing the legal system against dissenting voices, calling the situation “ridiculous.”
He also raised doubts about the government’s sincerity in upholding justice.
“If you really want justice, start with yourselves. When will you file cases against your own kind — and your drug-addicted children?” he asked.
Duterte further suggested that foreign entities may be influencing government actions, hinting at the involvement of the United States’ Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
“Let’s not pretend anymore — it’s becoming obvious that the CIA is the one running this government,” he said.
He warned that such actions are eroding democratic freedoms and creating a climate of fear for those who dare to speak out.
“The problem now is that those who tell the truth are the ones being targeted. This is no longer democracy — it’s beginning to look like a syndicate controlling the people’s rights,” Duterte said.
He also questioned whether freedom of speech still exists in the country:
“Now, anyone who dares to speak against the administration gets charged. So this is what they call the new normal in government?”
Duterte’s remarks came after Singson called for the resignation of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a bold political move that has further intensified friction between the administration and some of its former allies.
In his statement, Duterte urged the government to uphold fairness and avoid selective justice.
“If you really want justice, start with yourselves,” he reiterated, challenging authorities to look inward before going after perceived critics.
