1. One be a law expert without being a jerk. In contrast to the ever-fulminating, often hysterical Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, former Supreme Court Justice Conchita Carpio Morales carried herself with dignity and aplomb, even when another former Supreme Court justice, defense lead counsel Serafin Cuevas, tried his best to rattle her.
2. Morales is the exact opposite of her predecessor, the impeached Merceditas Gutierrez, and could prove to be the best appointee of President Aquino.
3. Only those public officials who have something to hide (like undeclared dollar accounts) should fear her.
4. When you think you’re so smart, you’re not. The idea of the defense team to bring in Ombudsman Morales as a “hostile witness” blew up in their faces!
5. The memorable campaign “Pag bad ka, lagot ka!” effectively used by Sen. Joker Arroyo, former hero of the people-turned staunch defender of the Arroyos, is perfect for the feisty Ombudsman. She is the “Avenger” of the Filipino people against abusive public officials who think being appointed or even elected in public office means a license to amass wealth either by commission or omission.
—ED DAMES,
San Lorenzo Village, Makati City