As a citizen of the Republic of the Philippines, whose citizenry is the real and ultimate “Boss” of all political officials in the government, allow me to impart these words to our servant and subordinate, the honorable Senator-judge Miriam Defensor-Santiago:
She may be one of the most intelligent government servants we have today, and she may deserve fully her election to the International Criminal Court, with her achievements and track record of public service. But that does not give her the right to browbeat, humiliate, shout, and show no respect at all to any person, no matter how poor and illiterate he may be, especially if this is done in a public setting, and much less in a nationally televised proceeding such as the impeachment trial.
As a high government official, she should exhibit the decorum, politesse and compassion of a true servant of the people. As a Christian—which she professes herself to be—she should treat others as she wishes herself to be treated, and see Christ in her neighbor. And as a Filipino, she should hold her brother/sister Filipinos as family, community and kith and kin.
Having said that, we urge the good senator to continue her fight against graft and corruption for which she was named an Asian Nobel Peace Laureate at age 43, to go on with her crusade for the rule of law for which she is famous, to speak her mind in all things (but politely, please), and to make the Philippines proud of her as a judge in the International Criminal Court.
—SAMUEL J. YAP,
708 Boni Ave.,
Mandaluyong City