Law graduates urged to be movers of change

MANILA, Philippines – Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez called on graduates of the Philippine Law School (PLS) to become the lawyers who will improve the working image of the government.

As guest of honor and speaker at the 91st commencement exercises of the PLS at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, Gutierrez told graduates to maintain an ethical practice and refuse to engage in any corrupt practices.

She also told the law graduates to be movers of change and “move in unison and trust one another’s good faith, honesty and cooperation.”

To attain this, she told graduates to empower themselves by simply not losing idealism, to improve themselves continuously, and cultivate honesty throughout their lives.

Gutierrez expressed confidence that young and idealistic lawyers can make a difference in society.

Gutierrez also said that change is most relevant in the fight against corruption and that “corruption does not happen only in government offices: it happens in private offices too, and involves not only public officers but also private businessmen, their lawyers, accountants and aides.”

Gutierrez is facing an impeachment complaint filed by 31 civil society leaders led by former Senate president Jovito Salonga over her alleged inaction, mishandling of several high profile cases and dismissal of graft and corruption cases since she assumed office in 2005. Gutierrez dismissed the move as politically motivated.