Manila: The Supreme Court (SC) suspended lawyer Jesus Nicardo Falcis III for one year after he used vulgar language in a social media post. The suspension comes as a result of Falcis' actions deemed as simple misconduct by the Court's Second Division while he was defending his brother, Nicko Falcis, against a qualified theft complaint filed by Kris Aquino.
According to Philippines News Agency, Falcis' post on social media included offensive language directed at those he perceived as biased against his brother. This post led to a complaint filed by Jason Gene Baltao, Aquino's former business partner, with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP). The complaint accused Falcis of conduct unbecoming of a lawyer, citing his violation of the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA).
The IBP recommended a penalty of a fine and reprimand for Falcis, but the Supreme Court opted for a heavier penalty, imposing a one-year suspension. The SC emphasized that under Canon II, Section 4 of the CPRA, lawyers are required to use dignified and culturally sensitive language in both professional and personal dealings. This includes refraining from abusive or offensive language on social media. The court highlighted that Falcis' conduct undermined the dignity of the legal profession and violated the ethical standards expected from lawyers.
The Supreme Court also referred to Sections 36 and 37 of the CPRA, which outline the responsibilities of lawyers in ensuring their online conduct upholds the dignity of the profession. Lawyers are expected to understand the ethical implications of using social media and to maintain respect for the law in their online communications.
In response to the suspension, Falcis stated that he was willing to pay the price for defending his family. He acknowledged the Court's disciplinary power and expressed his feelings of helplessness during the time he was advocating for his brother. Falcis mentioned that he used social media as a platform to voice his concerns, despite feeling like he was "screaming against the void."
