Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III hailed the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) as the country’s “shield of justice” during the agency’s 9th Grand National Convention on May 5 at the World Trade Center. 

While accepting the Lady Justice Statuette for his service as Outstanding Speaker of the House, Dy turned the spotlight back on the lawyers and personnel who defend the marginalized. 

He emphasized that the distinction belongs to the entire House of Representatives and its ongoing mission to safeguard the welfare of the Filipino people through equitable legislation.

Directly addressing the PAO workforce, Dy praised their role as the voice for those who cannot defend themselves, proving that justice in the Philippines is not a privilege reserved for the wealthy. 

“Lady Justice stands for fairness, balance, and truth,” Dy stated, noting that PAO staff breathe life into these principles every day. 

“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.” The House Speaker highlighted.

By providing free legal aid to those with "less in life," the Speaker affirmed that the agency remains the ultimate proof that the legal system can work for every citizen, regardless of their financial standing.

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