Cursing covered by right to free speech —Palace

Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Thursday indicated that cursing is covered by freedom of speech even as he conceded that profane language should be prohibited in schools.

"I think even cursing is part of freedom of speech. For as long as you do not injure the person, that is the subject of your curse," Panelo said at a news conference.

Panelo said he supported the idea of prohibiting profanity in schools after the Baguio City Council passed an ordinance on that matter.

However, he said an ordinance mandating a blanket ban on profanity could face legal questions.

"I will not oppose that kind of prohibition in school," Panelo said.

"You know profane words are uttered in a moment of anger – so all of us does it. I don’t think I have not heard of anyone not cursing when one is angry," he added. "It may not pass the constitutional test when it is raised before the courts."

The ordinance also covers computer shops and business establishments frequented by children.

It prohibits cursing and expressing insults, whether directly or indirectly, to anyone.

It also bans the use of profane and foul language as a means of expression, or as a manifestation of anger, surprise, disgust, or any other form of extreme emotion. —