Palace: No need to panic if innocent, says Cayetano tracked by NBI

Malacañang on Friday advised Senator Pia Cayetano not to panic about her travel movements being tracked by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), stating there is no need to fear if one has done nothing wrong. Cayetano had expressed concerns for her liberty and right to speak after discovering the NBI's surveillance upon her return from Singapore. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated that Cayetano, like any other citizen, has "nothing to fear if she has done nothing wrong." He implied that the NBI's actions would have been in accordance with legal procedures, though no specific details were provided by government officials regarding the nature of the investigation. This incident highlights ongoing discussions in the Philippines regarding the balance between citizen privacy and government surveillance. The tracking of prominent figures' movements by state agencies can raise concerns about potential overreach and the erosion of civil liberties. The situation is expected to fuel further debate on law enforcement practices and the protection of citizens' rights in the country.