THE Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)-Cebu City Chapter has filed a cyber libel complaint against a private individual over a viral Facebook post allegedly tainting the reputation of the lawyer’s organization.
“We urgently call upon the NBI, the PNP, and all relevant investigative agencies to promptly launch [a] comprehensive investigation into this heinous crime, along with all other unresolved cases targeting lawyers,” the IBP said.
"Stating rational observations on the decisions of the judiciary is normal. Attacking its members and threatening them with bodily harm is not," the Integrated Bar of the Philippines said.
“The IBP respectfully calls upon our law enforcement agencies, particularly the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to thoroughly investigate the matter, exact accountability, and all the more significantly elevate state responsibility to guarantee that lawyers can do their job without any threat to their safety and security,” IBP said in a statement.“It likewise requests the PNP and the NBI to possibly provide protection to the victims until this matter is successfully resolved,” it added.
Respect for constitutional rights including due process must be for all, regardless of affluence or political leanings, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines reminded authorities on Thursday.