Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Truth and justice - FROM THE HEART By Gina Lopez - The Philippine Star » Lifestyle Features » Sunday Life

Truth and justice - FROM THE HEART By Gina Lopez - The Philippine Star » Lifestyle Features » Sunday Life

"x x x.

Let’s backtrack a little bit. Why were these institutions made in the first place? Why is the “impeachment” process taking place anyway? It’s not about systems or structures. It’s about truth and justice.

Someone may counter: If we do not respect our institutions, then anarchy may take place. I would counter: If we do not respect truth and justice, then anarchy takes place. Then the corrupt or those intending to be corrupt know that in this country, they can hide behind legal machinations. Following the rule of law even if it sacrifices truth and justice does not breed stability; it breeds disdain, hopelessness, insecurity.

What is the way to achieve harmony, peace and well-being of the people? Truth, justice and the common good. Everything must be subservient to this. They are not difficult concepts. Not difficult decisions. It becomes complicated when people start intellectualizing. Take the Corona case. We want to find out the truth. How can a “just” decision be made, if the impeachment court cannot investigate all documents pertinent to the case?

Truth and justice. Leave aside all the complicated reasoning. The highest justice official of the land is being tried. It is important that we, the people, know the truth. So show the documents, reveal the bank records. That is part of the truth process. If the Senate and Supreme Court stand by this, we strengthen the pillars on which our country can grow. It is good for our country, for our people, and for the non-corruption stand of the current administration. If Corona is acquitted by legal machinations, it is not good for the country. He must be acquitted because he is honest and true. A process like this breeds security. The country is a safe haven if one stays true.

We need to be a country where God and goodness reign — not greed and manipulation. Every time the government at the highest level makes decisions based on these values, we strengthen and brighten the future of our people. When we get sucked into intellectual discussions that end up sacrificing these values, our future is sacrificed.

It is not institutions that will make our country great. It is the courage and clearsightedness of our leaders to make decisions and judgments based on the values of truth, justice and the common good. These values must take precedence over any institution or system. That’s the platform from which we should be making decisions.

x x x."