ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro and former Bayan Muna Party-list Rep. Satur Ocampo staged a protest in front of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) following their conviction for child abuse by the Tagum Regional Court.
Under the court’s decision, they were sentenced to imprisonment ranging from 4 to 6 years.
Both were also ordered to pay a total of 20,000 pesos in damages: 10,000 pesos for civil indemnity and 10,000 pesos for moral damages for abusing 14 minors
The Department of Justice (DOJ) emphasized the gravity of the proceedings and the importance of respecting the court’s verdict.
According to the DOJ, this demonstrates the judiciary’s commitment to uphold the law and protect the rights of vulnerable individuals, especially children.
“This ruling underscore the commitment of our judiciary to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of our most vulnerable citizens, especially children,” said Sec. Jesus Crispin Remulla, DOJ.
The DOJ appealed to all involved to respect the decision and the due process made by the court,
According to the DOJ, it is crucial to respect the court, the legal system, and the law itself.
They stress that any attempt to undermine public trust in the judicial process through inappropriate statements or actions is unacceptable.
“We must respect our courts, our legal system, and the law itself. Any attempt to undermine public trust in our judicial process through inappropriate statements or actions will not be tolerated,” said Remulla.
Nevertheless, the DOJ acknowledges the right of the convicted individuals to seek legal remedies such as appealing to the court.
