The Diocese of Kalookan has launched a legal aid program to help the poor access the country’s justice system and is urging lawyers and paralegals to join the effort.
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David said many poor individuals remain vulnerable due to a lack of legal representation and urged legal professionals to support the ministry.
“I am appealing especially to our public attorneys,” David said.
The “Access to Justice Ministry” was created in response to the increasing number of poor individuals who face criminal charges without proper legal counsel.
Many, according to the diocese, are unaware of their rights, cannot afford bail and lack access to timely legal assistance.
“I know many good lawyers who feel heartbroken when their clients say, ‘Attorney, I’ll just plead guilty. I can’t afford bail or a long trial,’” David said. “It breaks your heart to hear the poor say, ‘What choice do we have?’”
In a separate statement, the diocese said the poor often bear the greatest burden within the justice system.
“The Access to Justice Ministry of the Diocese of Kalookan seeks to change this reality by providing timely and compassionate legal aid for the poor,” it said.
David said the Church is ready to mobilize volunteer legal professionals to provide free legal aid.
“This way, the powerless can have access to justice against abusive law enforcers,” he said.
