Integrated Bar of the Philippines Emphasizes Rule of Law Following Supreme Court Ruling on Impeachment

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines has issued a statement affirming the significance of the rule of law as the foundation of democracy in light of the Supreme Court's decision in Duterte v. House of Representatives. The organization emphasized that true democratic governance is defined not by the mere assertion of power but by adherence to legal frameworks.

Highlighting the Supreme Court's pivotal role as the final interpreter of constitutional issues, the Integrated Bar stated that the Court's responsibility includes defining legal boundaries and clarifying constitutional implications, even when revisiting established precedents or addressing politically sensitive issues such as impeachment. This judicial authority functions within a system of checks and balances designed to prevent the overreach of any government branch.

The statement further recognizes the exclusive jurisdiction of the House of Representatives to initiate impeachment proceedings, acknowledging its vital role in upholding political accountability. However, it stressed that the political nature of impeachment does not exempt it from constitutional judicial review.

"To uphold the Constitution is to uphold each of its mandates equally whether judicial, legislative, or executive," the Integrated Bar declared. They called for respect toward both the House's impeachment powers and the Supreme Court's constitutional duty to interpret the law.

Acknowledging that dissent against the Court's decisions is a natural and necessary aspect of democracy, the statement warned against public calls to reject or defy the Court's authority. Such actions, it cautioned, undermine democratic institutions and threaten the delicate balance of power. The organization stressed that the Constitution requires faithful adherence to its provisions regardless of agreement with specific rulings.

In closing, the Integrated Bar reinforced that defending legal processes is essential not only to protect government institutions but also to uphold the sovereignty of the people from whom all authority originates.