Former president Rodrigo Duterte accuses government of stifling dissent by blocking an anti-government rally in Tacloban City, despite organizers citing Tropical Storm Aghon as the reason for the cancellation. Duterte, in an open letter, criticized the administration for disrupting travel and normal activities, and restricting the use of the Remedios Trinidad Romualdez (RTR) Plaza, framing these actions as part of a broader pattern of suppressing peaceful assemblies. He emphasized the importance of free expression and vowed to continue speaking out against the administration’s policies, warning that the lack of transparency and accountability would further harm the nation.
Duterte highlighted past instances where similar rallies were thwarted in places like Bulacan, but succeeded in Davao City, Cebu City, Tagum, and Dumaguete City. He claimed government workers faced repercussions for these events, citing the cases of Davao del Norte Gov. Edwin Jubahib and Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama. Despite the storm, Duterte insisted the real issue was the administration’s attempt to silence opposition and perpetuate power, alleging a plot to amend the Constitution and remove term limits.
Spokesman Lorraine Badoy confirmed Duterte’s stance and letter, accusing President Marcos of using intimidation to suppress rights. The RTR Plaza was reportedly occupied by police and commercial activities, which some perceived as efforts to prevent the rally. The Tacloban City Hall did not provide a comment on the matter. Here’s the full statement: https://www.manilatimes.net/2024/05/27/news/duterte-slams-govt-for-stifling-dissent/1948579
