Akbayan party-list Rep. Perci Cendaña warned of possible legal action against online pages, influencers and individuals who allegedly use his medical condition to mock and attack him.
Cendaña said he had allowed personal attacks against him for years, recognizing that public officials are subject to public scrutiny and criticism.
However, he said some recent attacks have crossed the line by using his medical condition to humiliate him and make him the subject of ridicule.
Cendaña disclosed that he is a stroke survivor and stressed that a disability should not be used as a source of jokes or as a weapon against another person.
The lawmaker said his position is not only for himself but also for other stroke survivors and persons with disabilities who experience insulting and damaging attacks.
Cendaña said he is already consulting with his lawyers regarding possible legal action against those responsible for the alleged attacks.
The lawmaker maintained that he will continue to accept legitimate criticism but will not tolerate harassment, humiliation and discrimination.
His warning comes after what he described as online attacks that allegedly crossed the boundary between criticism and personal harassment.
Cendaña emphasized the distinction between legitimate public criticism and attacks that target a person’s disability or medical condition.
He said public officials should remain open to scrutiny, but personal attacks involving disabilities should not be treated as acceptable criticism.
The Akbayan representative also stressed that his advocacy extends to other stroke survivors and PWDs who may face similar treatment online.
Cendaña has not identified in the statement the specific online pages, influencers or individuals he may pursue legally.
His lawyers are being consulted as he considers possible legal action against those he holds responsible.
For now, Cendaña said he will continue accepting legitimate criticism while drawing a line against harassment, humiliation and discrimination related to his medical condition.
