As the 20th Congress opened its second regular session yesterday, Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano warned the Philippines is moving toward an “undeclared martial law,” with critics of the government increasingly targeted through legal cases and intimidation.

Arriving at the Senate in the morning clad in black in a symbolic protest, Cayetano said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. should use his fifth State of the Nation Address (SoNA) to restore public confidence amid what he called multiple national crises, including corruption, economic uncertainty, and declining trust in the government.

“I truly believe our democracy is in danger and whenever you speak out you suddenly become a target,” Cayetano said.

Pressed by reporters to explain his remark about an “undeclared martial law,” Cayetano said the issue centered on freedom and democracy.

“Look at those who are being charged and imprisoned. If you stay quiet and go along with them, everything seems fine. But if you stand by your principles, you are the one who ends up facing charges,” he said.

He cited what he described as the alleged selective filing of criminal complaints and referred to the recent legal troubles faced by political personalities, saying the authorities appeared quicker to pursue cases against government critics.

Asked if he believed the country was already under an undeclared martial law, Cayetano replied: “If not yet, we’re nearing that.”

He also pointed to what he claimed was the unequal treatment of vloggers, members of the media, businesses and religious leaders depending on whether they were supportive of or critical of the administration.

The minority leader urged Malacañang to assure the public that the 2028 elections would push through, there would be no Charter change, and the Senate would not be abolished.

“These are dangerous times,” he said.

Crisis of confidence

Cayetano said the country is facing a broader “crisis of hope,” citing the persistent corruption, unresolved controversies in flood control and infrastructure projects, and the economic challenges affecting businesses and overseas Filipino workers