Speaker Romualdez Calls for Courage in Upholding Philippine Democracy Amid Legal Challenges
In a powerful address at the 20th National Convention of Lawyers held by the 0916PARTIDOFEDERALNGPILIPINASGENERALASSEMBLYANDNATIONAL.pdf”>Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) in Cebu City,Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez emphasized the critical role of legal professionals in safeguarding Philippine democracy.speaking to a national audience of lawyers, Romualdez warned that democracy is being tested not by force but by the “misuse and manipulation” of the law.
“Here at home, democracy is being tested not by force, but by apathy; not by the absence of law, but by its misuse and manipulation,” Romualdez declared.His remarks underscored the urgent need for legal professionals to rise above complacency and actively defend the Constitution.Romualdez highlighted that the legal profession “demands more than expertise, it demands courage.” He elaborated, “Courage to uphold the Constitution when it is indeed most inconvenient. Courage to speak the truth when silence is the safer path. And courage to stand for justice, not just for the privileged, but for those who cannot afford depiction, whose voices are drowned out by wealth and influence.”
The Speaker’s speech resonated deeply with attendees,as he stressed that the law’s strength lies in those who defend it. ”The law is only as strong as those who defend it, only as just to those who interpret it, and only as relevant for those who wield it for the common good,” he said.
Romualdez also assured that the House of Representatives remains committed to supporting the legal profession in addressing the needs of Filipinos. Though, he acknowledged that legislation alone is insufficient. ”The battle for justice is waged not only in Congress or the courts but in every forum where truth must be defended,” he added.
The event, attended by some of the nation’s most prominent legal minds, served as a rallying cry for lawyers to take a more active role in ensuring justice is accessible to all. Romualdez’s call to action comes at a time when the country faces significant challenges in maintaining the integrity of its democratic institutions.
| Key Takeaways from Speaker Romualdez’s Speech |
|————————————————–|
| Democracy is being tested by the misuse of law. |
| Legal professionals must demonstrate courage. |
| Justice must be accessible to all Filipinos. |
| the House of Representatives supports the legal profession. |
Romualdez’s impassioned plea for courage and integrity in the legal profession serves as a reminder of the critical role lawyers play in upholding democracy. As the nation navigates these challenges,his words echo a call to action for all legal professionals to stand firm in their commitment to justice and the Constitution.