Caloocan Diocese Launches Access to Justice Ministry
The Caloocan Diocese has officially launched the Access to Justice Ministry, a new program dedicated to providing free legal aid to impoverished Filipinos. This initiative aims to bridge the gap in legal assistance, ensuring that the poor receive equal opportunities to defend their rights.
Background and Purpose of the Ministry
This ministry was established following the tragic death of Dion Angelo Dela Rosa, an altar server whose father was arrested for illegal gambling. Community members noted that Bishop Pablo Virgilio David emphasized the urgent need for accessible justice, especially for those who bear the heaviest burdens within the legal system.
According to officials, the bishop invited volunteer lawyers, paralegals, representatives from non-governmental organizations, and law schools to participate in this vital program. He also expressed gratitude to the pro-bono lawyer who assisted the family of the late altar server, who passed away from leptospirosis after wading through floodwaters while searching for his detained father.
Ensuring Equal Legal Access for the Poor
“We want to ensure that through this ministry, even the poor can have access to equal opportunity to be heard and defend themselves if they are arrested or before they are arrested, they will be informed of their human rights,” Bishop David said in his homily.
Church officials explained that the Access to Justice Ministry mobilizes volunteer lawyers to dedicate several hours of free legal service, as mandated by the Supreme Court. This initiative focuses on empowering marginalized individuals by informing them of their rights and providing legal representation when needed.
How to Access Legal Services
The legal program advises those seeking assistance to answer all questions thoroughly and to allow paralegals adequate time to plan appropriate next steps. For emergencies requiring immediate intervention, the public is encouraged to dial hotline 911.
Addressing Broader Social and Environmental Issues
During his homily, Bishop David also referenced the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ pastoral letter regarding irregularities in government flood control projects. He remarked that these anomalies have become a shameful norm in society, contributing to both social and natural crises.
“This is a huge societal and natural crisis. That’s why the solution must be combined, fighting poverty and defending the dignity of those neglected by society, and taking care of nature. Let us listen to the cries of nature and of the poor,” David added.
As CBCP president, Bishop David urged the public to demand transparent accountability from both public and private contractors. He called for swift audits, real penalties, and visible transparency that citizens can witness firsthand.
For more news and updates on Access to Justice Ministry, visit Filipinokami.com.
