Duterte to lawyers: Be loyal to oath, country

MANILA -- President Rodrigo Duterte called on the country's legal practitioners to remain faithful to their oath of office and their countrymen as he graced the Integrated Bar of the Philippines' (IBP) 16th National Convention of Lawyers on Thursday, March 23.

In his speech before the members of IBP at the Marriott Hotel in Pasay City, Duterte said while lawyers confront many challenges, they must bear in mind that the country and people's interest are paramount.

"As we begin this year’s national convention, I ask the IBP to join me in reminding our fellow lawyers that we are indeed free to choose our battles, our loyalty must nonetheless remain with our oath of office and our country," he said.

The Chief Executive shared with the top legal professionals the strides made in combating graft and corruption, saying that he has asked erring officials in government agencies such as Land Transportation Office and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to vacate their posts. PNA