Akbayan Party-list Representative Perci Cendaña announced he is consulting with legal counsel regarding potential actions against individuals responsible for online harassment that mocks his physical disability.
The lawmaker acknowledged that public scrutiny comes with serving in government, stating he has endured routine personal criticism both online and offline.
“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’,” Cendaña said.
However, Cendaña highlighted that recent commentary crossed a line, as internet trolls began using his medical history as a stroke survivor to mock and demean him.
“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.
He stressed that living with a medical condition or disability should never be weaponized to strip anyone of their dignity.
“Ang kapansanan ay hindi katatawanan. Hindi ito dapat gawing sandata upang laitin, hiyain, o i-dehumanize ang isang tao. Hindi tamang salaulain ang dignidad o halaga ng sinumang tao, may kapansanan man o wala,” the solon said.
Cendaña emphasized that pursuing accountability is a stand on behalf of the entire community of stroke survivors and persons with disabilities who suffer similar online abuse.
“Bilang isang stroke survivor, hindi ko palalampasin ang ganitong pambabastos. I do this not just for myself but for all stroke survivors and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) who are subjected to similarly demeaning, degrading, and dehumanizing language and attacks,” Cendaña added.
The solon warned influencers, online channels, and individuals spreading hate speech that he is actively exploring formal legal options.
“I am consulting with our lawyers on the appropriate legal action that may be taken against those responsible,” he said.
While affirming his openness to valid political critique, Cendaña drew a clear line against harassment and ableist discrimination.
“I will continue to welcome legitimate criticism and public scrutiny. But attacks that cross into harassment, humiliation, and discrimination will be dealt with accordingly. I will not remain silent,” the solon added.