De Lima: Blatant disregard for honesty is ‘damning’

MANILA, Philippines — Nobody is perfect but the blatant disregard for honesty is “damning,” opposition Senator Leila De Lima said on Saturday.

“Granted, nobody is perfect. But the blatant disregard for honesty when confronted with a clear and evident truth is damning,” she said in a statement.

De Lima issued the statement as she called out Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo for disregarding honesty as an election issue.

The presidential daughter earlier said everyone lies and that honesty should not be an election issue.

Duterte-Carpio made the statement amid accusations by opposition senatorial bets that the candidates of Hugpong ng Pagbabago  (HNP) are telling lies.

HNP is the regional party formed by Duterte-Carpio.

READ: As poll bets trade barbs, Sara Duterte says ‘Everybody lies’

Malacañang meanwhile distanced itself from the issue but said Duterte-Carpio is entitled to her own opinion.

READ: ‘Honesty’ non-issue in polls? Palace: No stand, but Sara has right to own view

De Lima said honesty should be considered as an election issue, citing that under the Constitution, it is stated that:  “the State shall maintain honesty and integrity in the public service.”

“Sal Panelo and Sara Duterte represent what is wrong and how things could be worse for our government. It appears that these two pro-administration mouthpieces do not consider the matter of honesty as an important election issue. It is, absolutely,” De Lima said.  /muf