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The rule of law, or the idea that everyone should be subject to the same laws, is an important principle of any functioning democracy. Unfortunately, corruption in the Philippines can make it hard to ensure that everyone follows these laws equally. So what exactly does the rule of law mean in the Philippines? How can you ensure that you have good access to legal counsel if you need it? Is there an easier way to understand and navigate these laws without spending lots of time and money on expert legal advice? Keep reading for answers to these questions, and more about the rule of law in the Philippines.
What is rule of law?
Rule of law is a principle where all people, including those in positions of power, are subject to and equal before the law. It stands for an independent and impartial judiciary that applies laws fairly. Rule of law is also a precondition for economic development and prosperity. The rule of law is enshrined in the constitution. The 1987 Philippine Constitution declares: No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws.
The Philippine legal system
The government has to obey the same laws as everyone else. The government is not allowed to do anything that it would not allow other people to do. If a person commits a crime, he will be punished according to the law, no matter what his social status or position in society may be. All citizens are equal before the law and have equal protection under it.
1. The role of the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is an institution that has the power to interpret and apply Philippine laws, rules, and jurisprudence. It has original jurisdiction over cases involving ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, or violations of international law. The Supreme Court also reviews all appeals from lower courts. The Supreme Court is composed of a Chief Justice who is assisted by fourteen associate justices.
2. The role of the Department of Justice
The Department of Justice is mandated to be a leading agency to uphold the rule of law by securing, protecting and enforcing all laws. It also operates several divisions which include:-
(i) National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), an investigative and enforcement arm;
(ii) Bureau of Immigration and Deportation (BID), which handles matters related to foreigners residing in or visiting the country; and,
(iii) Bureau of Corrections (BUCOR), which manages penal institutions. The Department also has administrative oversight on all Philippine Courts.
3. The role of the police
Police are empowered by law to enforce laws and prevent crime. They are also tasked with investigating reports of criminal activity and providing information to prosecuting attorneys. To be a police officer, one must be at least 21 years old, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, be a US citizen or have been granted citizenship through naturalization, have no felony convictions and pass the physical fitness standards set by their state's law enforcement agency. In addition to enforcing the law and preventing crime, police officers serve as first responders at emergency scenes where they provide medical care to injured individuals until paramedics arrive on the scene. Police officers also respond to requests for assistance from other agencies such as when an individual is missing or there is some sort of disaster that has left people homeless or without power.
4. The role of lawyers
What is the concept of rule of law? Simply put, it is a system that ensures that everyone obeys a set of rules. The country's constitution and laws are designed to protect people from government abuse. In addition to these protections, a good legal system provides people with avenues for fixing or addressing problems when they arise.
What does this mean for lawyers? Well, as you can imagine, there are many different types of lawyers who might specialize in certain areas. For example, some lawyers might help with family law cases while others may deal with criminal law cases. This means that each type has their own skills and knowledge to draw on when they help someone with their case.
5. The role of prosecutors
In the criminal justice system, prosecutors represent the government. They are responsible for bringing charges against a person who is accused of breaking a law. Prosecutors have to prove that someone did something wrong and that they should be found guilty, with all the evidence provided by witnesses and police officers.
Conclusion:-
Rule of law is a system where certain norms and principles are seen as fundamental and normative. Rule of law in the Philippines allows individuals to get their rights and freedoms, but it also sets out rules that all must follow. When a government does not follow these rules, there will be consequences.
Read Also:- 5 Pillars of Criminal Justice System in the Philippines
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