Senator Robin Padilla Denies Reports of Disrespectful Gesture During National Anthem

Senator Robin Padilla has firmly dismissed reports accusing him of displaying an obscene gesture during the singing of the Philippine national anthem in a recent Senate session. In a live Facebook broadcast on September 11, Padilla clarified that he raised his index finger—not his middle finger—as he placed his right hand on his chest during the September 8 session.

The incident coincided with a significant reshuffle in the Senate, following the ouster of former Senate President Francis Escudero and the election of Senate President Vicente Sotto III.

Padilla explained that his gesture carries deep religious significance for Muslims. He stated, "I want to make it clear to everyone that this sign is sacred to us Muslims, which means there is no other God but Allah. This is the foundation of our faith."

He emphasized that his action was not meant to be disrespectful or offensive, adding, "I would never commit such an act."

The senator urged the media outlet responsible for the erroneous report not to trivialize his religious practice. "Please do not turn this into a joke. This is the foundation of all Muslim faiths. When singing the "Lupang Hinirang," while we deeply love the Philippines, our utmost priority is Allah," he noted.

Furthermore, Padilla insisted that he did not show any disrespect towards the national anthem or the Philippine flag, stating, "I did not disrespect our religion, nor did I disrespect our flag."