Malacañang assured that it will not prevent people from peacefully venting their grievances as tens of thousands gather in key places in Metro Manila to protest massive corruption in the government’s flood control program.
In a televised interview, Presidential Communication Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said, “Freedom of expression will not be curtailed.”
“The only request of the President is not to violate the law,” Castro added.
Mr. Marcos earlier said he might have joined the demonstrations himself if he were not in office, the Palace spokesperson noted.
Castro also addressed calls from some groups seeking to hold Mr. Marcos accountable for anomalies, noting that critics overlook the fact that the President himself ordered an investigation into questionable flood control projects.
“What accountability do they want from him? He initiated the probe. Let’s focus on those truly liable, not evade responsibility,” she said.
Castro also pointed out that Mr. Marcos cancelled his plans to fly to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly so he could be better apprised of the public’s pulse.
“Definitely, the President is monitoring because peace and order are needed, and protests must remain peaceful. That is why he did not push through with his trip, so he could know and hear the true concerns of the people,” she stressed.
However, Castro expressed concern that some political groups might exploit the protests to advance their own selfish agendas.
“Let us focus only on the real events happening now. Let us hold accountable those who are truly responsible, and not evade liability,” she added.
Castro also cautioned government employees against joining demonstrations that could disrupt public services or cause traffic congestion, though she said they are free to express their views lawfully.
