(We yield this space to the statement of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan due to its timeliness. – Ed.)
ANOTHER nail was driven in the coffin of democracy.
The granting of the quo warranto petition to remove the Chief Justice signals another serious regression in the system of checks and balance in the country. It is another act of tyranny that only empowers the Executive, while further undermining whatever is left of the separation of powers of the three co-equal branches of government. Constitutional safeguards have been demolished in favor of those who already wield tremendous power.
The people reject in the strongest terms this unjust decision of the High Court.
What was really on trial here were all three branches of government. The Executive maneuvered to remove the Chief Justice and consolidate its control over all the branches. The Legislative embarked on a fishing expedition via impeachment hearings to destroy the reputation of the Chief Justice. The Supreme Court exposed itself as a willing tool in undermining judicial independence because they had an ax to grind against the Chief Justice.
All three branches of government have failed the people. All three branches have only exposed the rottenness of the current ruling system. There will be a time for accountability. Right now, the people are justified in their indignation. The people are right to protest the rising tyranny of the Duterte regime.
In these dark times, the people are called on to stand together and resist. Makibaka, huwag matakot! Tuloy ang laban!
