FORMER Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) president Domingo Egon Cayosa has called for accountability, emphasizing that lawyers, particularly those in high public office, must adhere to the Canons of Professional Responsibility and Accountability.
Cayosa’s statement comes in response to the recent controversy surrounding Vice President Sara Duterte, who is a lawyer, and her public pronouncements.
“The Canons of Professional Responsibility and Accountability for lawyers are clear about the ethical and professional standards to which we must all abide to uphold the nobility of the legal profession and to promote respect for law and legal processes,” Cayosa stated.
He pointed out that the IBP and the Supreme Court have a history of disciplining lawyers for foul language or unethical conduct.
“The facts of the Vice President’s repeated cursing and claiming to have contracted for the killing of the President, the First Lady, and the Speaker of the House if she is killed, and her lawyering for her chief of staff are clear and very public,” Cayosa said.
While acknowledging the possibility of understanding VP Duterte’s feelings or circumstances, Cayosa stressed her accountability for her actions, especially given her high public position.
“Her subsequent explanations and perhaps backtracking may be factors that can be considered in calibrating the penalty in case a disbarment charge is filed against her by any citizen or if she is investigated motu proprio (without any complaint) by the Supreme Court or the IBP, if so minded,” Cayosa added.
Cayosa emphasized the importance of political leaders upholding ethical conduct and promoting a culture of transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
“Our political leaders can better lead and serve our country if they comport themselves properly, work against a culture of violence and impunity, promote transparency, accountability and the rule of law, focus and cooperate to address the real and more pressing issues besetting government and our country,” he concluded.
Cayosa’s statement highlights the importance of upholding ethical standards within the legal profession, particularly for those in positions of power. It underscores the need for accountability and the principle that no one is above the law, regardless of their position.
