IBP remains neutral on Lopez contempt case

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) announced it will remain neutral in the controversy involving Vice President Sara Duterte's chief of staff, Zuleika Lopez, who was cited for contempt and detained by the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability.

IBP national president Antonio Pido stated that the organization is prohibited from engaging in partisan politics and must avoid actions that favor any political party or group.

The IBP emphasized that Lopez's appearance before the committee was due to her role as a chief of staff rather than her status as a lawyer, noting that Supreme Court decisions regarding congressional hearings are part of the law.

On Thursday, November 28, the IBP released a statement reiterating its stance on remaining neutral in political matters and cited Section IV of the revised IBP By-Laws which prohibits any activity that tends to favor a particular political party or group.

The House Committee extended Lopez's detention order from five days to 10 days, while the IBP encouraged lawyers who wish to assist individuals held in contempt to immediately take legal action.