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Judicial independence, rule of law important for economic prosperity — Sereno


Judicial independence and the rule of law are necessary for the nation to attain economic growth, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno said Wednesday.

"To support the Judiciary's call for the rule of law is to support not only our democracy, but also to engender an environment conducive to economic growth," Sereno said in her keynote speech at the 55th Philippine Economic Society (PES) annual meeting.

"We can only ensure protection of the rights of every citizen including those in the business community if we have a judiciary that is truly independent and strong," Sereno added.

The top magistrate underscored that the rule of law "provides businesses the level playing field necessary to encourage investors, as well help in their strategic business planning."

"All investors who intend to invest for the long term look for stable rule-of-law institutions: independent, non-politicized and professional judiciary, prosecutors, investigators, law enforcement and anti-corruption officials," Sereno said.

"When it comes to building institutions, all government leaders must ensure that they support, not weaken institutions. Institutions build a nation. Strong institutions enable nations to prosper," she added.

Sereno said government institutions must work together in order to attract investors.

Sereno then vowed that the judiciary will continue to work hard to ensure that confidence in the justice system is built up.

"We have worked hard from day one to restore this confidence, and we are relentlessly working on it," Sereno said.

"I have constantly assured economic and business leaders that the judiciary is well aware of their desire that the judiciary ensure stability of judicial actions; improve the speed and quality of adjudication; and lower litigation costs," she added.

"The judiciary's performance directly contributes to a stable and efficient business environment in the Philippines," Sereno said.

Sereno is facing an impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Larry Gadon, accusing her of culpable violation of the Constitution, corruption, other high crimes and betrayal of public trust.

Sereno's camp has maintained that the charges against her are baseless and she has remained unfazed by the allegations against her. — BM, GMA News

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