The Department reaffirms that the right of citizens to organize, to assemble peacefully, and to express their views is protected under Article III Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution. These rights form part of the democratic space that the Department is duty bound to safeguard.

At the same time, the Department must enforce the laws that define the limits of protected expression. Articles 139 to 142 of the Revised Penal Code clearly outline what constitutes sedition and inciting to sedition. These provisions apply only when acts or statements seek to stir unlawful resistance against lawful authorities or to prevent the government from performing its functions. This legal standard is well-established and has guided national security assessments across administrations.

The Department remains committed to protecting both democratic rights and public order. Ensuring that citizens can speak and gather freely, while upholding the laws that guard against unlawful destabilization, is essential to a functioning democracy.