Several content creators might face charges after they posted several photos and a caricature of Akbayan party-list Rep. Perci Cendaña, which allegedly exaggerated and mocked the lawmaker’s disability.
In a Facebook post, Philippine Jurisprudence Official called out several content creators who allegedly made fun of Cendaña’s appearance, who is a stroke survivor.
“This act may violate Republic Act No. 7277 (Magna Carta for Disabled Persons), which protects persons with disabilities from humiliation and discrimination. It may also give rise to liability under defamation laws, and, if elements are present, may fall under Republic Act No. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act). Freedom of expression must always respect the dignity of others,” the page posted.
Cendaña also saw the caricature, prompting the lawmaker to warn people making fun of his appearance and reminding them that freedom of expression is not absolute.
“Ilang taon ko nang pinapalagpas ang araw-araw na paninira at personal na pag-atake sa akin, online man o offline. Hindi na ito bago. Bilang public official, bahagi ng trabaho ang pagiging subject sa public scrutiny and criticism. Hindi rin dapat maging balat-sibuyas ang isang public official. Gaya nga ng kasabihan, “If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen,” he said.
“Pero may hangganan ang lahat. Kamakailan, mas naging personal at mapanira ang mga pag-atake ng ilang online trolls laban sa akin. Mas nakababahala, ginagamit na nila ang aking medical condition upang ako ay ipahiya at gawing katatawanan,” he added.
The lawmaker said that he is already consulting with his lawyers on the appropriate legal action that they will file against those who were allegedly making fun of his disability.
Individuals who are proven to have violated RA 7277 may face a P5,000 to P200,000 fine and six months to six years of imprisonment.
Meanwhile, a P1,000 to P500,000 fine and imprisonment of up to 6 years will be imposed on those who violate RA 11313.



