📷Atty. Neri Colmenares
Makabayan coalition co-chairperson and human rights lawyer Neri Colmenares today strongly criticized the Department of Justice (DOJ) for its recent statements suggesting that ACT Teachers Partylist Representative France Castro and former Bayan Muna Representative Satur Ocampo may be disqualified from running in the 2025 Mid-Term Elections.
“The DOJ’s statement is not only premature but also legally baseless and potentially misleading,” Colmenares declared. “There is absolutely no legal ground to disqualify Rep. France Castro or former Rep. Satur Ocampo at this point, as they have not been convicted by final judgment. They still have the right to appeal the decision to higher courts.”
Colmenares, also concurrently the Bayan Muna chairman, emphasized that the DOJ’s statement goes against established legal principles and the presumption of innocence. “It’s alarming that the DOJ, which should stand for justice and legal accuracy, is making such irresponsible claims,” he added.
The human rights lawyer also pointed out that under the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CEPRA), government lawyers are prohibited from spreading misinformation or disinformation. “This is not just a misrepresentation of the law and rules, it’s highly unethical,” Colmenares stressed.
“We call on the DOJ to retract its statement and refrain from making prejudicial comments that could unduly influence public opinion or the judicial process. Maraming sikat na public officials ang convicted, pero DOJ never volunteered comments. Colmenares said. “Let the legal process take its course without undue interference or speculation from government agencies.”
Colmenares reiterated the Makabayan coalition’s support for Castro, Ocampo, and other progressive leaders facing what they view as politically motivated charges. “We stand firm in our belief that these cases are part of the continuing political persecution against progressive leaders who have consistently stood up for the rights and welfare of the Filipino people. Itong mga DOJ nagpapartisan political activity na kahit malayo pa ang eleksyon. This constitutes violation of anti graft laws and ethical standards of public officials, “ he concluded.###
