A punch-drunk lawyer

By Alex P. Vidal

“A lawyer will do anything to win a case, sometimes he will even tell the truth.”— Patrick Murray

LAWYERING is a noble profession. There are good and bad lawyers, but it’s always better to hire the services of lawyers when we need legal advice, guidance, and assistance for our protection and peace of mind.

But sometimes there are lawyers whose propensity to showboat publicly—even if not necessary—will give their clients plenty of trouble instead of a state of equilibrium and solace.

Like Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, lawyer of embattled Negros Oriental 3^rd district Rep. Arnie Teves.

When police authorities led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) recently raided several houses owned by Teves and seized several unlicensed firearms and ammunition, Topacio angrily threatened to file cases against the lawmen supposedly for “planting of evidence” insisting Teves didn’t own those confiscated firearms.

Topacio sounded and looked like he was determined lock, stock, and barrel to declare war against the police establishment when he spoke to the media.

We understand Topacio’s role as Teves’ lawyer. He needed to say something in order to please his client whose whereabouts couldn’t be  known as of this writing; in fact, the lawyer was within his capacity to represent and fight for Teves’ constitutional rights and interest.

But Topacio should also learn how to be circumspect with what he is doing and saying.

In actual combat in the darkness, we don’t immediately panic, stand up and expose ourselves and start firing at all directions after hearing a loud blast from unknown direction. We don’t waste our bullets and continue to stay where we are hiding; we observe and listen.

Was Topacio not aware of what had transpired just hours or days before the CIDG raid on Teves’ houses?

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Before the raid, the “full force” of the administration landed or made its presence felt in Negros Oriental when no less than President Bongbong Marcos Jr., Speaker Martin Romualdez, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr., Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Senators Bato dela Rosa, Joel Villanueva, among other political behemoths, visited the wake of assassinated governor Roel Degamo.

President Marcos Jr., et al vowed to give “swift” justice for victims of the massacre on March 4 that killed Degamo and eight other civilians. “They can run but they can’t hide,” assured the President, who is Degamo’s political ally.

The raid, conducted in relation to the separate murder raps slapped against the arrogant Teves for other political killings that happened in 2019, was covered by a court order and certainly part of President Marco’s imprimatur to the Department of Justice, the Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Philippine National Police.

Noisy and punch-drunk Topacio should think it’s now a case of “you and me (him and Teves) against the world.”

They are saying, “you can’t fight city hall.” In this case, can anyone fight Malacanang?

Yes, file cases against the police raiders. But huwag naman buga ng buga laway.

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HOW TO CONVINCE U.S. EMPLOYERS TO SPONSOR FOR GREEN CARD. The Filipinos of New York recently issued an article prepared by Robert RDB. The title is: How can I convince my employer in the United States to sponsor me for Green Card?

Convincing your employer to sponsor you for a green card can be a challenging process, but there are steps you can take to make your case. Here are some tips:

-Be a valuable employee: Your employer is more likely to sponsor you for a green card if you are a valuable employee. Make sure you are doing your job well and exceeding expectations.

Highlight your qualifications: Make sure your employer is aware of your education, skills, and experience that make you a valuable asset to the company.

-Discuss your long-term goals: Let your employer know that you are committed to staying with the company long-term and that obtaining a green card would help you achieve your career goals.

-Show the benefits of sponsoring you: Explain the benefits of sponsoring you for a green card, such as increased job security, loyalty to the company, and the ability to travel outside the US more easily.

-Offer to help with the process: Let your employer know that you are willing to pay for immigration/attorney’s fees and that you understand the requirements and procedures involved.

-Seek professional help: Consider working with an immigration attorney or accredited representative who can help you and your employer navigate the complex green card application process.

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-Understand the requirements: Make sure you understand the requirements for the specific green card category you are applying for, such as employment-based categories or family-based categories. This will help you make a stronger case to your employer for why you are eligible and deserving of sponsorship.

-Be proactive: Take the initiative to start the conversation with your employer about green card sponsorship. This shows that you are serious about your long-term career goals and are willing to take the necessary steps to achieve them.

-Be patient: The green card sponsorship process can take time, so be patient and understanding. It may require several discussions with your employer and possibly even consulting with an immigration attorney. Be prepared to answer any questions your employer may have and provide any necessary information or documentation.

-Explore other options: If your employer is unable or unwilling to sponsor you for a green card, explore other options such as applying for a green card through a family member or exploring other employment opportunities through Direct Hire Agency and ask if there is any employer that is offering for green card sponsorship.

Remember that sponsoring an employee for a green card can be a time-consuming and expensive process for the employer, so be patient and understanding throughout the process.