Senator Erwin Tulfo on Monday delivered a fiery privilege speech, condemning Beijing’s alleged attempts to police Filipinos for speaking out against its actions in the West Philippine Sea.
He stressed that no foreign government has the authority to dictate the limits of freedom of expression in the Philippines, which is protected by the Constitution.
“If you do not like how democracy works in this country, then you are free to leave the Philippines. Get the f… out,” Tulfo declared, adding, “This is our house. Hindi sila ang boss natin at tayo ay mga tau-tauhan lang nila.”
His remarks came after Chinese Embassy Deputy Spokesperson Guo Wei warned that freedom of expression should not be used to malign foreign leaders, following a satirical post by Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela featuring Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Tulfo argued that Chinese officials lacked moral authority to lecture Filipinos on free speech, noting that expression is punished in China.
“So do not export censorship to a nation that fought, bled, and died to be free,” he said.
He also denounced Beijing’s recent warnings that Philippine officials would “pay the price” for comments on the West Philippine Sea, calling them unacceptable attempts to intimidate and silence.
“Our officials have the right and the duty to speak about aggression against our nation. And Filipinos, Mr. President, will not whisper in their own house just to avoid offending a foreign power, particularly China,” Tulfo asserted.
The senator emphasized that the Philippines will not take lessons in democracy from governments that suppress dissent.
“Respect is not demanded. It is earned. And it is mutual. If you want respect from Filipinos, then respect our Constitution. Respect our officials. Respect our freedom of speech. And respect the simple truth that this is not your country,” he said.
“The Filipino people are not afraid. We are not silent. And we will not be bullied, politely or otherwise,” Tulfo concluded.