Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio has dismissed Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Larry Gadon’s call for a “sing-off for a cause,” citing the seriousness of ongoing legal issues involving the Supreme Court and Vice President Sara Duterte.
Topacio, who recently filed a seven-page indirect contempt petition against Gadon, said the challenge crossed the line, even if both are known to share occasional friendly banter and singing.
According to Gadon, the idea was inspired by Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III’s recent charity concert, aiming to raise funds for a cause. However, Topacio said humor has its limits—especially when it involves the dignity of the High Court.
“As an officer of the court, it is my duty to defend the judiciary,” Topacio said, adding that Gadon’s recent public statements attacked not just the Chief Justice but the entire Supreme Court’s handling of the impeachment case against Vice President Duterte.
In the petition, Topacio cited Gadon’s remarks calling the court a “puppet of the Dutertes,” which he said is grounds for legal accountability.
The dispute highlights rising tensions following the Supreme Court’s controversial involvement in the impeachment complaint, sparking broader concerns about judicial independence and political pressure.
