IBP to consult fishermen regarding petition before Supreme Court

July 12, 2019

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) on Friday said it will ask for time to consult fishermen in Zambales and in Palawan regarding the petition in the Supreme Court for the government to protect disputed shoals in the West Philippine Sea. 

"The Integrated Bar of the Philippines stands firmly with the fishermen, IBP Chapters, and the lawyers involved in the petition for a writ of kalikasan filed before the Supreme Court," IBP said in a statement. 

The pronouncement came after Solicitor General Jose Calida on Tuesday said the fishermen withdrew their signatures from the petition. 

Calida also added that during a conference, the Supreme Court en banc agreed to suspend oral arguments on the case and allot time for the petitioners to file a joint motion.

"Considering the new allegations by the Office of the Solicitor General, the handling lawyers will request the Supreme Court for time to confer with the fishermen in Zambales and in Palawan do that they can more appropriately act on the developments in the case," IBP stressed. 

Aside from moving for the dismissal of the case, Calida also accused the IBP for using the fishermen for "political agenda."

"The IBP advocates for the enforcement of environmental laws, protection of the rights and welfare of fisherfolks, and securing the territory and patrimony of our country in the West Philippine Sea," the IBP said. Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS