Supreme Court dismisses writ of kalikasan petition for protection of West PH Sea

MANILA, Philippines–The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed the writ of kalikasan petition for the protection of the West Philippine Sea on request of the petitioners themselves.

“The Petition was dismissed based on the request of the petitioners to withdraw their signatures from the Petition and based on the motion filed by respondents. The Supreme Court did not pass upon any of the substantive issues raised,” the High Court’s Information Chief and Spokesman Atty. Brian Keith Hosaka said at a press conference.

Solicitor General Jose Calida, during the July 9 oral argument accused the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) of defrauding the fishermen. He revealed that the fisherfolk from Palawan and Zambales have executed affidavits stating that they are not aware that such a petition will be filed against the government.

The High Court ordered the counsel/petitioners Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) to coordinate with the fisherfolk from Zambales and Palawan about the case.

However, the IBP and the fishermen withdraw from the case.

The High Court, in its recent ruling said “The counsels were cautioned that they should be ready with the necessary evidence before they seek the issuance of extraordinary writs.”

The Supreme Court through the ponente of the case, Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, emphasized that counsels should establish and maintain a form of communication with their clients at all times.

“Mere difficulty in contacting clients  should not be used by counsels in as an excuse to renege on their duties and to disengage from their commitments,” Justice Leonen said.

The Court issued a stern warning against the counsel of petitioners, the IBP “that the commission of the same or similar infractions in the future would be dealt with more severely.” /muf

READ: SC to parties in West PH Sea case: Don’t litigate case on social media