Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio T. Carpio clarifies the misconception surrounding the party-list system in the Philippines, emphasizing that the judiciary’s actions were guided by constitutional principles.
In a recent interview with ANC’s Karen Davila, Justice Carpio explained that the judiciary simply upheld the constitutionality of the party-list system, which was established to provide marginalized sectors a voice in Congress.
The controversy surrounding the party-list system has sparked heated debates, with some arguing that it has become a platform for self-serving interests rather than genuinely representing the needs of the people. However, Justice Carpio maintained that the judiciary’s role is not to make policy decisions but to ensure that all laws and actions are in accordance with the Constitution.
As a respected jurist and constitutional expert, Justice Carpio’s insights provide valuable context to the ongoing debate on party-list system reforms. His clarification highlights the importance of upholding constitutional principles in governance and ensuring that the judiciary remains an impartial arbiter of the law.