MANILA, Philippines – Opposition congressmen urged yesterday President Duterte’s critics not to be afraid of trolls supporting him on social media.

They made the appeal in the wake of criticisms and threats received by singer Agot Isidro for calling Duterte a psychopath and suggesting that he should see a psychiatrist.

“People must have the courage to speak out and tell their families, friends, associates, the community and the nation about their real sentiments on President Duterte’s flawed priorities and erratic rhetoric,” Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman told a news conference.

“The freedom of expression must not be cowed by fear of rebuke, condemnation, reprisal or vengeance. The government must respect the inalienable right of the governed to criticize those they had installed in power. Democracy pulsates in the arena of free speech, not in the unanimity among subalterns,” Lagman said.

He said Duterte and his supporters must respect Isidro’s views.

“That was how she measured the President. It’s part of freedom of expression, which must be respected,” he added.

Ifugao Rep. Teodoro Baguilat Jr. said he would not share the singer’s assessment of Duterte.

“I would probably say his pronouncements, especially on foreign policy, are erratic and provocative,” he said.

For his part, Akbayan Rep. Tom Villarin said, “Let’s have more Agot Isidros in our midst.”

The three congressmen belong to the House opposition group led by Baguilat, which has vowed to be Duterte’s fiscalizer.

The other opposition bloc, led by minority leader and Quezon Rep. Danilo Suarez, supports the administration.

Lagman and his colleagues noted that anyone who criticizes the President in mainstream or social media gets a barrage of threats from Duterte’s supporters and trolls.

The threats include physical harm.

NAPC apologizes

The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) has apologized to Vice President Leni Robredo and Isidro after negative remarks about them were posted on its social media accounts on Monday.

“Certain distasteful statements have been posted on our Facebook page, which in no way reflect NAPC’s views or values,” read the statement issued by the NAPC headed by Liza Maza.

“We sincerely apologize to Vice President Robredo, Ms. Isidro and to the public in general. We are investigating this matter internally,” it added. – With Janvic Mateo