“Corruption of this sort harms the commonwealth in two distinct ways,” he said in his State of the Judiciary Address, titled “From Federalization to Recession: The Courts in Difficult Times.”
Corruption, he said, is “draining” resources that are already in place and is indirectly the “single most detrimental factor to public confidence and trust that is necessary for a prosperous economy.”
Demapan said local merchants “will become indifferent and lose enthusiasm to contribute” in the rebuilding efforts, while “potential investors will shy away if they know they cannot rely on governmental protections.”
He added, “Our economy will not grow if those in the private sector who have the ability to influence the market feel that they are dealing with a dishonest government.”
According to the chief justice, “We must understand that corruption hinders our ability to provide basic services.”
He said “democracy fades, as people recognize that their voices are drowned by their leaders’ pursuit of ill-gained personal prosperity.”
Demapan said the judiciary is “striving to remain above reproach, to put forth an air of transparency, and, when necessary, to hold others accountable when they have so strayed from the ethical path.”
Asked for comment, Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, who attended the address, said he fully supports actions that will eradicate corruption.
He described Demapan’s address as “sincere.”
“I always respect the judicial system specially in eradicating corruption. I am happy that the judicial system is working,” Fitial said.
In separate interviews, Senate President Pete P. Reyes and Speaker Arnold I. Palacios commended Demapan’s comments regarding corruption and the achievements of the judiciary under his watch.
Demapan said the judiciary has reduced from 104 to 74 its full-time employees in the last two years, which translates to a cut of $900,000 in personnel costs.
Demapan said janitorial services were suspended, saving approximately $30,000 per year.
“Members of the judiciary have selflessly done the majority work previously performed by the cleaning service,” he added.
Demapan said the judiciary is likewise targeting to save over 30 percent in annual utility costs.
Moreover, he said, newly implemented court rules and administrative procedures have been put in place.
He underscored the judiciary’s role in resolving the foreclosure crisis with the help of young lawyers trained in mediation.
