Freedom of expression is not absolute, especially in a state of national emergency, and those who abuse it may be charged in court.

So warned Malacañang after singer Mystica hurled invectives on social media against President Rodrigo Duterte for his handling of the new coronavirus disease crisis.

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In a social media post, the singer dared the President to undergo home quarantine without food or drink. She later apologized for her post and claimed to be an ardent supporter of Mr. Duterte.

“The President believes in the right to free expression. But even in human rights and international law, freedom of expression is not absolute. It has its limits,” said presidential spokesperson Harry Roque in a virtual press briefing.

Roque cited the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, stressing that a state “can derogate, among others, the freedom of expression if there is a national emergency.”

The Palace dismissed the plea of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines for the United Nations to look into the alleged atrocities committed by government forces against communist rebels during the unilateral ceasefire it had declared over the COVID-19 crisis.

“All over the world, groups like these are considered criminals. And whatever they do, they will be treated as criminals. That’s why I believe UN secretary general [Antonio Guterres] won’t do anything about it, because the UN does not protect criminals,” Roque said.

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