Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin 'Boying' Remulla on Tuesday, April 16, said he ordered a probe to determine if Davao del Norte 1st District. Rep. Pantaleon 'Bebot' Alvarez could be held criminally liable for sedition or be incited as rebellion following his withdrawal call.

"I have ordered an investigation on the statements of Congressman Pantaleon Alvarez to determine whether it has risen to the level of Sedition, inciting to Sedition or even Rebellion," he said in a statement received by DZRH News.

BASAHIN: Pinaiimbestigahan na ni Justice secretary Boying Remulla ang naging panawagan ni Cong. Pantaleon Alvarez sa AFP na magbitiw ng suporta kay PBBM | RH 29 @boy_gonzales pic.twitter.com/7bi4Cv4wRW

— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) April 16, 2024

The former House Speaker has already issued a public apology, saying his emotions just carried him away.

Remulla, who once served as Cavite 7th District congressman, reminded Alvarez to be careful in uttering such a remark.

"As a former lawmaker myself, I would like to remind Congressman Alvarez to act in accordance to the highest standards of ethics, morality, and nationalism, and avoid remarks unbecoming of a member of the House of Representatives," he said.

The three leaders described Alvarez's call as "divisive" and "dangerous," and that this was a direct attack against the democratic institution.

The former House Speaker, they said, should be held accountable to thwart attempts to destabilize the government.

House leaders, pinakakasuhan na si dating Speaker Alvarez | RH 12 @milkyrigonan #RapidoHatawBalita #SamaSamaTayoPilipino

WATCH: https://t.co/tcYhZklG2w pic.twitter.com/j3QPlo97gb

— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) April 16, 2024