Executive Secretary Ralph Recto has urged 140 newly appointed government prosecutors to remain independent and decide cases strictly based on evidence, stressing that the rule of law must prevail over politics and personalities.
Speaking during their oath-taking ceremony in Malacañang on Wednesday, Recto reminded the prosecutors that their role is not to advance political interests or protect those in power, but to uphold fairness and accountability.
“You are not here to bring politics into the charging decision. You are not here to serve personalities,” he said.
“You are not here to shield the powerful. You are here to be fair. To hold power—any power—accountable to the law.”
Recto described Department of Justice prosecutors as a frontline defense of democracy, noting that impartiality and due process are essential to maintaining public trust in the justice system.
“For that is how the rule of law is proven: by letting due process run its course without spin, without shortcuts, without political seasoning,” he added.
The Executive Secretary emphasized that accountability applies to everyone, including those holding the highest offices.
The newly appointed prosecutors will be deployed nationwide to help decongest court dockets and speed up case resolution as part of efforts to reduce backlog and strengthen prosecutorial capacity.
“Justice that needs instructions is not justice—it is obedience. And you are not here to obey personalities. You are here to uphold principles,” Recto said.