GABRIELLE VINCENT ARANTE VILLAFLOR LIFWRIZ-219

NO EQUALITY BEFORE THE LAW

Travel back in time to the era of Rizal, where the Philippines, once a land of vibrant
cultures and traditions, found itself shackled under the oppressive rule of Spanish
colonization. Within the heart of history, a tale unfolds, rife with “evil events” that veiled
the nation’s aspirations in darkness. Like a forbidden chapter etched in the annals of time,
these events cast a shadow over the lives of our ancestors, transforming them into beings
yearning for freedom. Amidst this oppressive backdrop, a relentless quest for justice
echoed in the souls of the Filipino people, like a distant but unwavering call for liberty.
Stripped of their power to control and shape their own destinies, they grappled with the
burden of a stolen future. Equality before the law became an elusive dream, with the poor
and marginalized bearing the brunt of injustice, their voices silenced and their rights
unjustly withheld.
In the echoes of history, the plight of our impoverished ancestors is laid bare, for
they were unjustly deprived of their basic rights in the eyes of the law. In a court of
supposed justice, the scales were tipped against them, as the poor found themselves
scarcely represented, their voices barely heard. The very guardians of justice, the judges,
were at times swayed and manipulated by those in positions of power, leaving the
vulnerable to face an uphill battle. One significant barrier that further entrenched this
injustice was the lack of education among the impoverished. Struggling to comprehend
the intricacies of the legal system, they were denied the ability to exercise their rights
effectively. This lamentable reality persists even in the present, where some may argue
that the poor stand on equal ground before the law, but the truth remains elusive. Events
unfold, showcasing that the law often favors those with wealth and influence, who can
bend the truth to their advantage. While laws may have been enacted to protect the
underprivileged, they fall short in practice. The absence of competent legal representation
hampers the poor from fighting their battles with confidence, resulting in a sense of
neglect and despair. Their voices cry out, “Ang Batas ay para lang sa may Pera” (The law
is only for those with money), as they feel unheard and defeated before the case even
commences.
As the echoes of Rizal's time reverberate into the present, we find ourselves
grappling with the remnants of historical practices that have left an indelible mark on our
society. Like ancient imprints etched in stone, these practices have seeped into our
collective consciousness, becoming deeply ingrained and challenging to eradicate. One
of these enduring symbols is the concept of "Bayan," a powerful expression of community
and nationhood, which has withstood the test of time. Just as our ancestors carried the
weight of injustice and struggled to break free from the chains of oppression, we too bear
the responsibility of addressing the lingering disparities in our modern world. History's
shadows serve as a stark reminder that the struggle for equality and justice is an ongoing
endeavor, requiring continuous effort and dedication.
 As we stand at this crossroads of time, we must reflect on the lessons of the past
and forge a path towards a more equitable future. While some traditions may be hard to
remove entirely, it is within our power to redefine and reshape them to serve the greater
good. Embracing the spirit of resilience and determination, we can build a society where
every individual's rights are protected, regardless of their economic status or background.
Let us be inspired by the wisdom of our ancestors, drawing strength from their resilience,
as we embark on a journey to create a better world for generations to come. By
recognizing the legacy of our past and acknowledging the areas in need of improvement,
we can shape a future where justice prevails, and the voice of every Filipino, rich or poor,
is heard and valued. Together, let us pave the way towards a society where the principles
of "Bayan" are woven with empathy, compassion, and fairness, nurturing a nation that
thrives on unity, progress, and shared prosperity.