The Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) was recognized by the Speaker of the House of Representatives for its continued role and longstanding service in providing legal support to indigent, poor, and vulnerable Filipinos, highlighting its work as essential in making justice more accessible to those who cannot afford private counsel.
At the PAO’s 9th Grand National Convention, House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III paid tribute to the agency, describing its lawyers and staff as the “shield of justice” for Filipinos who have less in life, and for helping ensure equal access to justice across the country.
Dy also said the Lady Justice Statuette award conferred on him in recognition of his service at the House of Representatives was not solely an individual honor, but a reflection of the broader work of institutions that aim to uphold fairness and justice in society.
“But more than the award, I value what it represents. Lady Justice stands for fairness, balance, and truth. Araw-araw, kayo sa PAO ang nagbibigay-buhay sa mga prinsipyong ito. Kayo ang boses ng mga walang kakayahang ipagtanggol ang sarili. Kayo ang nagpapatunay na ang hustisya ay para sa lahat, hindi lamang sa may kakayahan” Dy said.
He also invoked the principle often attributed to former President Ramon Magsaysay, emphasizing that the law should prioritize those most in need.
“Naalala ko ang sinabi ni Pangulong Ramon Magsaysay: ‘I believe that he who has less in life should have more in law.’ It is a simple yet powerful message,” he emphasized.
“Kung sino ang kapos sa yaman, koneksyon, o kapangyarihan—siya ang mas dapat pinangangalagaan ng batas. At ito ang diwa ng inyong serbisyo,” Dy added.
He underscored PAO’s critical role in ensuring that legal assistance reaches marginalized communities, helping balance the justice system for those who lack resources.
“You are the shield of justice for our people. You help level the playing field and ensure that the scales of justice remain balanced—especially for those who need it most,” he noted.
Dy also stressed that laws passed by Congress should not remain on paper but must translate into real and tangible benefits for citizens.
“Bilang Speaker, naniniwala ako na ang batas ay hindi lamang dapat ipinapasa—dapat ito ay nararamdaman. At sa inyong gawain, ang hustisya ay nagiging totoo sa buhay ng ating mga kababayan,” he added.
The recognition, he said, serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility among government institutions to ensure justice remains accessible.
“Kaya ang parangal na ito ay tinatanggap ko hindi bilang personal na pagkilala, kundi bilang paalala ng ating mas malaking tungkulin—to work together so that justice is never delayed, never denied, and never out of reach.”