The arrest of United People’s Initiative (UPI) convenor and retired major general Romeo V. Poquiz on Monday has reignited debate over the use of rebellion and sedition charges against critics of the current administration.
Poquiz was served an arrest warrant at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 upon his arrival from Bangkok, Thailand, according to reports and confirmation from his legal counsel Ferdinand Topacio. The arrest was carried out at around 8 a.m., as earlier advised by Topacio to members of the media.
Topacio said the arrest stemmed from cases of rebellion and sedition linked to Poquiz’s public statements and criticisms directed at the current administration. Police documents indicate that the warrant served was in connection with a sedition case.
Radio reports from Super Radyo dzBB said the case followed Poquiz’s participation in a protest held on 16 and 17 November at the People Power Monument in Quezon City.
A copy of the arrest warrant shared by Topacio showed that bail for the sedition charge was recommended at around P48,000. Following his arrest, Poquiz was expected to be brought first to Camp Karingal and later processed at Camp Crame, before being presented to the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 77 for the posting of bail.
Poquiz heads the United People’s Initiative, an organization that has taken part in protest actions critical of government policies. Topacio is also a member of the group.
The case has drawn attention to how laws on rebellion and sedition are being applied, particularly when charges arise from protest participation and political expression.