Philippines

The Supreme Court has disbarred newly appointed Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Lorenzo "Larry" Gadon over his "profane" remarks against a journalist.

In a tweet on Wednesday, the SC Public Information Office said the SC en banc voted 15-0 to disbar Gadon.

“By a unanimous vote of 15-0, the Supreme Court En Banc resolved to disbar Atty. Lorenzo "Larry" Gadon for the viral video clip where he repeatedly cursed and uttered profane remarks against journalist Raissa Robles,” it said.

In a statement, Gadon said he would file a motion for reconsideration "on the ground that the penalty is too harsh."

“My remedy and reaction to this is to file a Motion For Reconsideration on the ground that the penalty is too harsh for the alleged cause which was my outburst against a reporter who was blatantly spreading lies against Pres BBM (Bongbong Marcos) during the campaign period intended to fool the public on issues intended to cause damage to the candidacy of Pres Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” he said.

Gadon's disbarment came two days after Malacañang announced his appointment as Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation.

According to the Presidential Communications Office, Gadon's appointment "reflects the government's commitment to address one of the most pressing challenges faced by our nation."

'Scandalous' video

According to the SC PIO, the justices found the video clip "indisputably scandalous that it discredits the legal profession."

The SC cited Gadon particularly for violating Canon II on Propriety, of the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability, "which imposes that a lawyer shall, at all times, act with propriety and maintain the appearance of propriety in personal and professional dealings, observe honesty, respect and courtesy, and uphold the dignity of the legal profession consistent with the highest standards of ethical behavior."

For the SC, Gadon "failed to realize that lawyers are expected to avoid scandalous behavior, whether in their public or private life."

In his statement, Gadon said the SC decision would not affect his commitment to his new role in the government as Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation.

"The position and the task given to me by the President do not require lawyering hence my suspension and disbarment have no effect on my appointment," he said.

"I will just approach this issue on a personal concern, file a motion for reconsideration and proceed in facing the challenges of the job and aim to serve the public in my best capability," Gadon added.