Secretary of Justice (Philippines) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Secretary of Justice |
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|---|---|
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Official seal of the
Department of Justice |
|
 Jesus Crispin Remulla since June 30, 2022 |
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| Style | The Honorable |
| Member of | Cabinet, Judicial and Bar Council |
| Appointer | The President with the consent of the Commission on Appointments |
| Term length | No fixed term |
| Inaugural holder | Severino de las Alas |
| Formation | April 17, 1851 |
The Secretary of Justice (called Kalihim ng Katarungan in Filipino) is a very important person in the Philippine government. They lead the Department of Justice and are a key member of the President's Cabinet. This means they work closely with the President to make sure laws are fair and followed.
The person holding this job right now is Jesus Crispin Remulla. He started his role on June 30, 2022.
Contents
What Does the Secretary of Justice Do?
The Secretary of Justice is like the country's chief legal advisor. They help make sure that justice is served for everyone in the Philippines. This includes overseeing the country's legal system.
Their main jobs include:
- Making sure laws are followed fairly.
- Protecting people's rights.
- Helping to prevent and solve crimes.
- Giving legal advice to the President and other government groups.
A Look Back: History of the Justice Secretary Role
The role of the Justice Secretary has a long history in the Philippines. It changed names and responsibilities many times over the years. Let's explore some key periods.
Early Days: Revolutionary Government (1897)
The idea of a justice leader began even before the Philippines became fully independent. In 1897, during the revolutionary government led by President Emilio Aguinaldo, there was a "Department of Grace and Justice."
- Severino de las Alas was the first person to lead this area. He was called the "Director of Grace and Justice."
- Later, the title became "Secretary of Justice." Gregorio S. Araneta held this position.
American Period: Changes and New Titles (1899-1935)
When the United States governed the Philippines, the justice role continued to evolve.
- For a while, the leader was called the "Attorney General." Florentino Torres was the first to hold this title.
- Later, the role was combined with finance, becoming "Secretaries of Finance and Justice."
- Eventually, it returned to "Secretaries of Justice." Many important people served during this time, helping to shape the country's legal system under American rule.
Commonwealth and World War II (1935-1946)
During the Commonwealth period, before full independence, the role of Justice Secretary was very important.
- José Yulo and José Abad Santos were notable Secretaries of Justice under President Manuel L. Quezon.
- During World War II and the Japanese occupation, the title changed to "Commissioner of Justice." José P. Laurel was one of the commissioners.
After Independence: Third and Fourth Republics (1946-1986)
After the Philippines gained full independence in 1946, the Secretary of Justice continued to be a vital position.
- Many individuals served under different presidents, including Manuel Roxas, Elpidio Quirino, Ramon Magsaysay, and Ferdinand Marcos.
- During the Marcos era, the title briefly changed to "Minister of Justice."
Modern Era: Fifth Republic (1986-Present)
Since 1986, with the start of the Fifth Republic, the position has consistently been called the "Secretary of Justice."
- Secretaries like Franklin Drilon, Leila de Lima, and Menardo Guevarra have played big roles in recent Philippine history.
- Today, the Secretary of Justice continues to work hard to uphold justice and the rule of law for all Filipinos.
See also
- Justice ministry
- Politics of the Philippines
