April 26, 2006

DOUBLE COMMENDATION FOR THE SUPREME COURT,
STRIKE TWO FOR THE PEOPLE

The Tongtongan Ti Umili-Cordillera Peoples Alliance (TTU-CPA) lauds the Supreme Court (SC) in its latest decisions on the unconstitutionality of Executive Order (EO) 464 and Calibrated Pre-emptive Response (CPR). These SC decisions coincide with the peoples’ clamor for the protection of civil and political liberties such as the freedom of speech and expression, the freedom of the press and the right to peaceful assembly which were brazenly violated by EO 464 and CPR.

It is comforting to know that the Supreme Court can still act judiciously and independently, free from the ever-present pressure and influence from the Executive Branch. Through its affirmation on the unconstitutionality of EO 464 and CPR, the Supreme Court Justices have regained the peoples’ trust, amid the deepening belief that the SC, through some of its decisions, is serving in the pleasure of the president and not of the people.

The Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (GMA) regime should now come to terms with these SC decisions and should refrain from using its monstrous fascist policies. Clearly, this regime is hell-bent in circumventing the law in order to satisfy its greed for power. It can be recalled that EO 464 and CPR were the first measures of GMA when the Hello Garci controversy was on its peak and the rallies and demonstrations for her ouster were conducted almost on a daily basis.

GMA should now be wary on her fascist-dictator posturing, knowing that the Supreme Court would not allow her to trample on our democratic rights. We are hoping that the Supreme Court would also display fairness on the issues regarding the declaration of State of National Emergency and the continuing political repression and political killings being espoused by this fascist regime.

We challenge the SC to remain steadfast on its decisions and not change its direction in pursuing the aspirations of the people for a truly democratic and just society. We call on the people to rejoice and commend the Supreme Court. Let us remain vigilant and continue to fight for our civil and political rights.

Reference:

Chie Galvez
Secretary-General, Tongtongan Ti Umili
442-2115/304-4239