Manila: Malaca±ang on Tuesday dismissed claims that the Philippines is under a so-called 'de facto martial law,' asserting that unfounded accusations do not merit a response from the Palace and emphasizing that the rule of law remains intact. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the statement in response to remarks by Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, who alleged that critics of the administration feel intimidated or are being selectively prosecuted.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro stated that not all incorrect opinions deserve a response from the Palace. When questioned further about whether such statements could influence public perception, especially given Rep. Leviste's following, Castro pointed reporters to their own experiences. She suggested that media practitioners themselves, as members of the Malaca±ang Press Corps, would be able to discern the truth of Leviste's claims.

Castro also dismissed assertions that government critics are being targeted for exposing corruption, noting that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has not filed cases against his detractors despite numerous accusations against him. She highlighted that critics frequently make accusations and hurl harsh words at the President, yet he has not pursued legal action against them.

Meanwhile, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson also rejected the claims of a 'de facto Martial Law,' stating that he has not observed any government actions suppressing critics. Lacson emphasized that if such a situation existed, critics would already be facing reprisals, such as libel complaints, for their criticisms of supposed government wrongdoings.