Manila, Jan. 16 -- Weaknesses and abusive practices in the justice system are allowing corrupt public officials to escape accountability, a senator said Friday.

In a radio interview, Sen. Francis Pangilinan said the fight against corruption would not succeed without a functioning and accountable justice system, stressing that abusive practices within the judiciary contribute to a culture of impunity.

"This is not just a corruption issue. This is also a justice system issue," Pangilinan said, noting that while abusive politicians and anomalous public works projects are often exposed, accountability ultimately depends on judicial action.

Pangilinan, who chairs the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, lamented that some public of...