Amid the ongoing high-level tension in government, key business organizations call for the protagonists to uphold the rule of law.

The Makati Business Club (MBC) and Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), with the backing of some organizations, expressed concern over recent statements and actions that threaten the stability of the constitutional order and country.

“The resolution of political disagreements must adhere to legal and democratic processes. Resorting to threats, incendiary rhetoric, or any form of violence has no place in a nation founded on the rule of law. To this end, we strongly urge all public officials and political leaders to demonstrate restraint, uphold the dignity of their offices, and prioritize the welfare of the Filipino people above political interests,” the joint public statement, released on Friday, said.

 On Friday, President Marcos Jr. said he is not closing his doors to a possible settlement with Vice President Duterte despite the ruckus that happened for more than a month now.

“Never say never. I believe we reached the point of no return, and it is clear [that] they are going after me,” the Vice President, for her part, said.

AFP must be steadfast

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) was urged to maintain its role in safeguarding the Constitution and protecting the nation from internal and external threats.

 “We call on the AFP and all institutions to remain steadfast to their constitutional mandate and ensure that all their actions are grounded in the principles of legality, impartiality, and service to the nation. Deviations from their mandate will (definitely) erode the confidence in the business environment and worse, endanger the very foundations of the democratic society,” they said.

Moreover, the groups urged investigative agencies, including Congress, to conduct their inquiries impartially.

“Ensuring public trust requires investigations to be conducted fairly, transparently, decently, and free from political biases and influence. Accountability must be pursued within the bounds of due process, ensuring that justice is not only done but is seen to be done,” they said.

“In these challenging times, the undersigned organizations call on our people to remain vigilant and steadfast in upholding the rule of law amidst political tensions. The strength of our institutions and the resilience of our democracy depend on our collective resolve to remain loyal to the Constitution and reject efforts to erode public trust in good governance,” the groups maintained.

Aside from MAP and MBC, groups who signed the joint statement are the Justice Reform Initiative, Ateneo De Manila Law Alumni Association, Energy Lawyers Association of the Philippines, Filipina CEO Circle, Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, Institute for Solidarity in Asia, Institute of Corporate Directors, Integrity Initiative, Inc., Philippine Women’s Economic Network, Shareholders Association of the Philippines, and the Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service.