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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Mindanao devider DOJ decision to dismiss libel cases against Trillanes irks Rep. Paolo Duterte

DOJ decision to dismiss libel cases against Trillanes irks Rep. Paolo Duterte

Published Oct 17, 2025 10:09 pm
REP. Paolo Duterte (second from left). (FB)
REP. Paolo Duterte (second from left). (FB)
DAVAO CITY – Davao City first district Rep. Paolo Duterte criticized on Friday, Oct. 17, the Department of Justice for its recent decision to dismiss the libel cases against former Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, calling it a “reward” for political loyalty rather than a genuine act of justice.
In a strongly worded statement posted on his official Facebook page, Duterte questioned the integrity and consistency of the DOJ, which, he noted, had previously charged Trillanes for libel in a resolution signed by then-Justice Secretary and now Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla.
“So, this is what justice looks like now? After seven years and almost a full-blown trial, the DOJ suddenly did a 360 and reversed its earlier resolution indicting Antonio Trillanes for libel,” Duterte said. “Talk about timing.”
The Davao lawmaker said it seems the DOJ is favoring political allies of the administration, not as the defender of the law, saying the move reflects a justice system driven by “friendship and political accommodation.”
“Dismiss the cases against Trillanes? Of course. That is the ‘new justice’ system of the Philippines – one where friendship and political accommodation trump accountability,” he said.
Duterte lambasted the DOJ and the Office of the Ombudsman for overstepping their roles and undermining the independence of the courts.
“Judges and justices, you can all resign now – the DOJ and the Ombudsman can already handle the entire law of the Philippines on their own!” Duterte said.
Calling the decision a “reward for loyalty,” Duterte warned that the move of the DOJ erodes public trust in the country’s legal institutions.
“This is not justice – this is reward – a reward for loyalty to the right people, for serving the right narratives. And the Filipino people see right through it,” he said.
Duterte urged legal professionals and public officials to uphold the rule of law over politics. “Our justice system deserves better than an Ombudsman and a DOJ that plays politics instead of protecting the truth.”
The DOJ has yet to issue a statement in response to Duterte’s remarks as of posting time.

Related Tags

Rep. Paolo Duterte Davao City Antonio Trillanes Libel
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