Lawyers group asks DOJ to junk sedition raps meant to ‘harass, intimidate’ gov’t critics

The Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) said the sedition complaint filed by the Philippine National Police based on the statements of Peter Joemel Advincula alias "Bikoy" was meant to harass, silence, and intimidate government critics.

The lawyers group condemned the charges, saying they were "baseless" and based on a witness with absolutely no credibility.

"They are meant to silence and persecute human rights lawyers, opposition leaders, and the Church, and to send a message to anyone who dares to criticize this administration," said the group.

FLAG reminded the government of its obligation to “ensure that lawyers are able to perform all of their professional functions without intimidation, hindrance, harassment or improper interference.”

The group added that lawyers “shall not suffer, or be threatened with, prosecution or administrative, economic or other sanctions for any action taken in accordance with recognized professional duties, standards and ethics.”

FLAG said the charges filed by the PNP's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) were designed to intimidate, harass and interfere with the group's lawyers, "who are just doing their jobs as human rights defenders."

FLAG called on Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra to "immediately throw out the CIDG complaint."

President Rodrigo Duterte's daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, earlier described as a "scam" the alleged plot to discredit his father and their family through "Bikoy" and mocked the group behind it. — MDM, GMA News