CJ Bersamin: Country’s problems should be resolved internally

MANILA, Philippines – The country’s problems should be resolved internally, Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin said Wednesday.

In his speech during the 121st Independence Day rites at the Andres Bonifacio Shrine in Caloocan City, he said the country should not rely heavily on foreign assistance. Instead, we should value the sacrifices of our ancestors and ensure that the country is free from foreign conquerors.

READ: Bersamin takes swipe at country’s too much dependence on foreign help

The Philippines has been friendly with China despite its activities in the disputed West Philippine Sea.

Retired Supreme Court Justice and former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales and former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario had submittted communication to The Hague regarding China’s infractions and violation of its ruling.

READ: PH wins arbitration case over South China Sea

Separate communications were also submitted by human rights advocates before the International Criminal Court (ICC) against President Rodrigo Duterte for the deaths under the government’s war on drugs.

“Marami tayong buhay na procedure dito na makakalutas ng problema. Bakit hindi dito gawin (Our institutions are working and we have procedures here that can solve our problems. Why can’t we do it)?” the Chief Justice told reporters after his speech.

“Walang ibang makakalutas sa ating hamon at problema kundi tayo rin (No one can solve our problems except us),” he said. (Editor: Eden Estopace)