“No man is above the law and no man is below it: nor do we ask any man’s permission when we ask him to obey it.”

The late United States president Theodore Roosevelt underscored this in his Third Annual Message delivered on Dec. 7, 1903 before members of the US Senate and the House of Representatives.

Indeed, the long arms of the law can reach anyone, no matter how powerful or influential one is.

The arrests of influential religious leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and dismissed Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo are clear examples of the long arms of the law principle.

Quiboloy, despite thousands of his followers shielding him, is now finally under government custody after several days of dramatic standoff with authorities. He faces serious charges both in the Philippines and the United States. His arrest underscores that no amount of hiding or influence can protect someone from the consequences of their actions.

Similarly, Alice Guo, who is being implicated in the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) and charged with graft and other criminal offenses, was apprehended in Indonesia and swiftly extradited to the country. Her arrest, facilitated by high-level coordination between nations, highlights the international reach of justice. Guo’s case demonstrates that even those who attempt to flee across borders cannot escape the law.

The high-profile arrests of Quiboloy and Guo send a strong message to all and sundry: The rule of law prevails. The legal system, despite its flaws, works tirelessly to ensure that justice is served. The cases of Quiboloy and Guo remind us that the law is an unwavering force, capable of overcoming obstacles, and bringing those who had brushes with the law to account for their acts.

However, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of due process as this ensures that every individual, regardless of status and the severity of accusations, is given a fair trial and the opportunity to defend themselves. It is a fundamental principle that upholds the integrity of the legal system and prevents wrongful convictions.

May the law find its course, and may justice prevail for all victims. These events reinforce our faith in the legal system and its ability to uphold justice, regardless of the accused’s influence or attempts to evade accountability. 

By adhering to due process, we ensure that justice is served, maintaining public trust in the rule of law.