Mamayang Liberal (ML) Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima has expressed her full support for Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesman Jay Tarriela after he filed cyberlibel charges against social media personality Sass Sasot, a Marcos administration critic who has since gone abroad.

De Lima on Friday, July 4, asserts that while freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy, it cannot be used as cover for lies meant to destroy reputations.

De Lima said she commends Tarriela's resolve as his move speaks not only for himself but also for every public servant who has chosen to face difficult truths rather than bend to convenient falsehoods.

Tarriela has been a vocal defender of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) against foreign incursions there.

For De Lima, the PCG official has taken on one of the most difficult public roles of our time: speaking for the nation’s sovereignty amid the tension in the WPS.

''His commitment to clarity, transparency, and principled service has drawn national attention and respect. That same courage has also made him a target,'' De Lima said.

On Friday, Tarriela said he filed a cyberlibel complaint against Allan Troy Sasot, known on Facebook by pro-Duterte supporters as Sass Sasot, for making various allegations that made him look like a beneficiary of the United States (US) government, among others.

During the 19th Congress, Sasot was invited by House lawmakers to attend the investigation into the rampant disinformation and cases of fake news in the country.

But Sasot failed to attend and was cited in contempt.

For De Lima, seeking legal recourse, like what Tarriela did, was an act of courage.

''It affirms the value of truth at a time when lies are amplified and monetized. It upholds the idea that those who serve the public deserve protection instead of persecution,'' she said.