The Commission on Human Rights welcomes the steps laid down by the Supreme Court in defense of the country’s lawyers and judges as they continue to face harassments and threats to their lives.

It is high time that a stronger message be sent on the invaluable role of lawyers and judges in upholding human rights, particularly to due process, as well as the rule of law.

Courts, lawyers, and judges are crucial in administering justice, as well as in uncovering the truth, especially for gross human rights violations.

Impunity can be addressed if there is certainty that perpetrators are going to be held into account and that the legal system can be free from threat and intimidation to convict the guilty and free the innocent.

At the same time, the Supreme Court cannot do this alone. We continue to urge the government, especially our law enforcers, to uphold their duty to respect and protect the life and liberty of every individual.

Ultimately, to assault the legal profession—hence, an assault to the Judiciary—is to assault the established check and balance in the government enshrined in the Constitution. It is in the best interest of the entire government to support these courses of action from the Supreme Court to ensure that a functional justice system in the country remains and that protection of our rights can be assured, especially at a time when human rights are constantly threatened and challenged. ###