Senator Panfilo Lacson cautioned yesterday that public officials found to be manipulating witnesses into giving false testimonies face severe consequences. He stated these officials can be charged as primary offenders in perjury cases. Beyond prosecution, Lacson emphasized a potential penalty of permanent disqualification from holding any government position. This warning addresses the act of inducing perjury, not simply the act itself. Lacson’s statement highlights a strong stance against the manipulation of the legal system by those in power. The aim is to deter officials from coercing individuals to lie under oath for personal or political gain. This represents a potential intensification of accountability for corrupt practices within government.