Lawyer and political commentator Atty. Jesus Nicardo Madarang Falcis III fired back at Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Monday after the latter sought his disbarment before the Supreme Court. The case stems from a series of sharp social media posts Falcis made between July and September 2025, which Escudero claimed were “irresponsible and malicious” attacks against him.
In one post, Falcis taunted Escudero with humor, saying: “Wag niyang antaying itaas ko ang kilay ko! Matatalo siya sa laki at kapal ng kilay ko. 👊” The lawyer then listed pointed questions that he said Escudero must answer, including the controversial ₱142 billion budget insertions that critics have branded as the “most corrupt 2025 Budget.”
Falcis also pressed Escudero to clarify why he allegedly accepted campaign donations from contractors such as Lawrence Lubiano, and why he “mangled” the definition of forthwith under the Constitution to justify questionable budget maneuvers. He further highlighted allegations raised by DPWH Undersecretary Bernardo, who claimed Escudero received ₱160 million in kickbacks. According to Bernardo, Escudero allegedly said: “Alam ko galawan niyo dyan sa DPWH. Sabihin mo si Sec. (Bonoan), babaan ako (ng pondo).”
Escudero, however, struck back formally. In a verified complaint dated September 29, the senator asked the Supreme Court to disbar Falcis, arguing that his tirades were not just criticisms but “accusatory, defamatory, demeaning, speculative, hateful, and malicious.” He cited phrases where Falcis branded him “shameless,” “the worst Senate President in history,” and “bulok na keso” (rotten cheese).
“Unfortunately, such statements and remarks are actually gratuitous instruments of contempt designed to publicly humiliate complainant,” Escudero wrote. He added that such behavior from a lawyer violates the dignity expected from members of the Philippine Bar and sets “a scandalous example” to the public.
Escudero also pointed out that Falcis had been previously cited for direct and indirect contempt, proof of his “propensity to violate and continue to violate” the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA). His complaint specifically accused Falcis of violating Canon II (Propriety), which requires lawyers to act with courtesy and civility, and Canon III (Fidelity), which prohibits undermining respect for the rule of law by raising accusations on social media instead of proper forums.
The Supreme Court has yet to take action on Escudero’s petition, but the fiery exchanges between the Senate President and Atty. Falcis signals a legal and political showdown that could shape public discourse on accountability, free speech, and professional ethics in the legal field.