The Supreme Court has upheld the right to free speech after dismissing petitions for indirect contempt against political analyst Richard Heydarian, Akbayan Party-list Rep. Percival "Perci" Cendaña, and Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation Lorenzo “Larry” Gadon over remarks criticizing its impeachment ruling involving Vice President Sara Duterte.

In a decision written by Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, the high court ruled that the respondents’ statements are protected political speech and do not constitute indirect contempt.

The petitions arose from public comments following the Court’s 2025 ruling in Duterte v. House of Representatives, which declared the fourth impeachment complaint against Duterte unconstitutional.

Petitioners argued that the statements undermined the Court’s independence and public trust. However, the Court said contempt requires clear intent to obstruct or interfere with the administration of justice.

It stressed that political speech — even if harsh — enjoys the highest constitutional protection and may only be restricted if it incites imminent lawless action.

The Court found Heydarian’s posts to be fair comment on a matter of public interest, while Cendaña’s remarks reflected opinion and dissatisfaction with the ruling. Gadon’s statement, though deemed disrespectful, was also considered protected speech.

The Court reminded public figures to exercise civility in criticizing the judiciary but emphasized that open discussion on issues of public concern must remain free.

It also warned that disinformation is not protected speech and may be subject to legal action.