Manila, Jan. 27 -- Malacanang on Tuesday dismissed claims that the Philippines is under a so-called "de facto martial law," saying unfounded accusations do not merit a response from the Palace, and stressing that the rule of law remains in place.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the statement when asked to react to remarks by Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste alleging that critics of the administration feel intimidated or are being selectively prosecuted.

"Not all wrong opinions deserve a response from the Palace. Iyon lang," Castro told reporters in a press briefing.

Pressed further on whether such statements could influence public perception, given Leviste's following, Castro pointed reporters to their own experience.

"Unang-una ...