The arrest of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, former congressman Mike Defensor, and businessman Joseph Espiritu on plunder charges serves as a reminder that no government official or prominent personality is above the law. In a democratic society, the issuance of a warrant does not mean the accused is guilty. The constitutional presumption of innocence remains until guilt is proven through due process in court.
Legal Process and Public Perception
It should not be a point of contention whether an accused “surrendered” or was “arrested.” What matters is that the legal process was followed and authorities performed their duties in accordance with the law. As the trial proceeds, the public must avoid making judgments based solely on opinion or political sympathy. The courts, not social media or the court of public opinion, have the final say in evaluating evidence.
Measure of a Strong Democracy
The greatest measure of a strong democracy is not the number of cases filed against officials, but the courage of institutions to enforce the law without fear, favor, or bias. It cannot be denied that some officials are involved in corruption, especially those named in the “maleta” issue. Questions arise: Is there silence because they are allies of the administration? Can we say that law enforcement is selective?
