STC lawyer stands by advice to bar students

CEBU, Philippines - The lawyer of Saint Theresa’s College, Romeo Balili, stood by his decision advising his clients to ignore the court order and not allow five students from joining their graduation ceremony.

He told the media if the school allowed the students to join the graduation their other students might no longer take sanctions imposed by the school seriously.

“I did my best to protect the interest of my client. I will stand by my decision,” he said.

The school barred the five students from attending graduation after photos of them in bikinis were posted online.

As to the comment of Judge Wilfredo Navarro that putting up a bond is the discretion of the court, he said the added bond is necessary for the issuance of the temporary restraining order whether or not there were actual damages.

Balili cited Rule 58 Section 4 (b) of the Rules of Court in the issuance of preliminary injunction or TRO.

“Discretionary… well that’s according to him if you read the rules no discretionary was stated …for him, if it is discretionary then he would explain why it was discretionary. Well that’s his contentions I respect that but incidentally I don’t agree,” he said.

He added he will accept whatever investigation will be made as to the consequences of his decision.

“Then I explain my side, I did not commit anything it is the duty of a lawyer to defend the best interest of his client. If in doing my job the Integrated Bar of the Philippines will investigate me I welcome it,” he said.

IBP-Cebu City Chapter President Earl Bonachita said he will discuss with the board regarding possible actions to take against Balili.

He added if lawyers commit mistakes then they may be warned, admonished and suspended.

The lawyers of both parties do not have a problem with Navarro’s move in inhibiting from the case.

Balili said he salutes the move while Enrique Lacerna, the counsel of one of the students concerned, said there was no problem with the inhibition of Navarro.

“If that’s the order of the judge then we will wait for the order of another judge,” he said.

The parents of the students have filed charges for child abuse and unjust vexation against the school. – (FREEMAN)