Under the Constitution, the Philippines is a Republican and Democratic State, Sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them. The military and police are the guardians and protectors of the people, and follow the chain of command,, and observe civilian supremacy over the military.
The concept of the chain of command recognizes the President as.the commander in chief, however, the concept of civilian supremacy recognizes respect and adherence to our duly constituted and/or elected officials, from.the President, Vice-President, Members of Congress to the lowest Local Government Unit (LGU) or barangay officials.
Under the concept of separation of powers and principle of check and balance too, the legislative or Congess, has the power to legislate, the executive, Office of the President to LGUs, to implement laws and programs, and the judiciary, or courts, to settle justiciable controversy.
The power to cite in contempt should be exercised only within the parameters of their separation of powers.
Sana all should respect and honor each other's mandate for the people because that is the essence of our republican and democratic State.
Atty. Emmanuel Mahipus
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