|
Friday, September 22, 2006
Speak out: Advocates of the law
By Jovenson Mabalatan
Cebu City
A senseless criminal act is deplorable under all circumstances. The criminal, however, under the precepts of due process, should be given his day in court before being punished.
But this due process is a hindrance to the perceived final solution to the problem of unabated criminal activities in the city. The final solution, to some, is through vigilantism.
To a certain extent I agree, but I am more concerned with the total disregard of the law in the choice of this much easier way of eliminating scoundrels of society.
In this sense, the noisy lawyers (as Sun.Star columnist Bobby Nalzaro had depicted members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines), cannot, by virtue of their profession, take the side of vigilantism.
It would be improper, unprofessional, and anomalous even, for them to espouse the propriety of summary killings. Lawyers are trained to uphold the law.
One line in the Lawyers Oath states: “…I will support its Constitution and obey the laws as well as the legal orders of the duly constituted authorities therein…”
The IBP should therefore not be doubted as to its true sympathy on this ticklish issue. It is definitely for peace, or the maintenance of peace without running afoul with established precepts of due process.
The IBP should be allowed to play its role as advocates of the law even if they do it noisily.
Lawyers have an oath to uphold and deviating from it would make them like spineless worms surrendering to the exigencies of the times and unfaithful to the avowed Rule of Law.
For Bisaya stories from Cebu. Click here. (September 22, 2006 issue)
Write letter to the editor.Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board.Click here. |
|
[return to top]
[home]
[network page]
|
LOCAL NEWS
BUSINESS
OPINION
SPORTS
LIFESTYLE
FEATURE
SUPERBALITA
WEEKEND
|
