Marcos to lawyers: Protect rights amid cybercrimes, climate crisis

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. encouraged lawyers Thursday to protect human dignity and rights with the emergence of cybercrimes and climate crisis.
In his speech during the 20th National Convention of Lawyers in Cebu City, Marcos said that lawyers should lead to resolve challenges in the digital world.
“In this era of technological advancements, economic transformations, and global interdependence, you stand at the forefront of an unprecedentedly dynamic and therefore challenging landscape. The emergence of issues such as cybercrime, data privacy, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence presents not only technical dilemmas but moral ones as well,” he said.
“And therefore, they demand our continued commitment to protect human dignity in an increasingly digital world,” he added.
Marcos also pointed out the role of lawyers in developing environmental policies amid the climate crisis.
“Equally pressing is the existential challenge of our time: and that is the climate crisis. This is no longer an abstract threat that is spoken about at a high level of science. It is a reality that jeopardizes the very survival of future generations,” he said.
“Your field plays a vital role in this endeavor, crafting and upholding stronger environmental policies that protect our shared home, developing the concept of environmental justice. By doing so, you safeguard the rights of today and preserve the dreams and dignity of those that will follow us,” he added.
The President commended the Unified Legal Aid Service Rules that requires lawyers to render at least 60 hours of pro bono legal aid every three years for indigent Filipinos.
He also lauded the Integrated Bar of the Philippines' (IBP) for its free legal assistance, new Secure Justice Hubs, and Pro Bono Portal.
“We must embrace a simple but profound truth: The law must serve all Filipinos—not just a privileged few. Justice must find its way to the margins, where it is most needed, reaching the underserved, the unseen, and the unheard,” Marcos said.
“After all, the Constitution is meant to be wielded with purpose and compassion, especially for those who need it the most,” he added. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA Integrated News