NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
PAO Chief Persida Acosta Apologizes To The Supreme Court
Photo credit: Persida V. Rueda-Acosta
In response to the recent conflict between Public Attorney's Office (PAO) Chief Persida Acosta and the Supreme Court (SC), Acosta has expressed a heartfelt apology to the highest judicial body in the country. This comes after the SC dismissed her request to remove a section of the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA) that limited PAO from invoking conflict of interest.
The SC, acting as a full court, took note of Acosta's continuous public criticism of Canon III, Section 22, both through social and mainstream media. She had been branding the adoption of the CPRA as unconstitutional and an unwarranted interference by the SC into PAO's operations.
In her statement, Acosta addressed the esteemed Justices of the Supreme Court, expressing profound humility and respect as she sincerely apologized, if they had been hurt by the recent events. She also sought their utmost understanding, explaining that their arguments were driven by their earnest desire to serve their clients and the underprivileged, which they instill in their fellow lawyers. Their concerns arose from the potential impact on their clients and legal practitioners.
Acosta further emphasized her deep respect and love for the Supreme Court, which has been her first refuge and home in public service since 1988, spanning approximately 35 years. She assured the Court that the public attorneys would strictly adhere to Section 22 in relation to Sections 13 and 18, Canon 3 of the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Concluding her statement, Acosta expressed her gratitude and extended her wishes for the continued success of the Supreme Court of the Republic of the Philippines.
It remains to be seen how this apology will be received by the Supreme Court and whether it will have any bearing on the relationship between the PAO and the judiciary moving forward.
The SC, acting as a full court, took note of Acosta's continuous public criticism of Canon III, Section 22, both through social and mainstream media. She had been branding the adoption of the CPRA as unconstitutional and an unwarranted interference by the SC into PAO's operations.
In her statement, Acosta addressed the esteemed Justices of the Supreme Court, expressing profound humility and respect as she sincerely apologized, if they had been hurt by the recent events. She also sought their utmost understanding, explaining that their arguments were driven by their earnest desire to serve their clients and the underprivileged, which they instill in their fellow lawyers. Their concerns arose from the potential impact on their clients and legal practitioners.
Acosta further emphasized her deep respect and love for the Supreme Court, which has been her first refuge and home in public service since 1988, spanning approximately 35 years. She assured the Court that the public attorneys would strictly adhere to Section 22 in relation to Sections 13 and 18, Canon 3 of the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Concluding her statement, Acosta expressed her gratitude and extended her wishes for the continued success of the Supreme Court of the Republic of the Philippines.
It remains to be seen how this apology will be received by the Supreme Court and whether it will have any bearing on the relationship between the PAO and the judiciary moving forward.
Jul 14, 2023
