MANILA, Philippines — Former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo has formally nominated Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen to serve as the country’s next Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
In a letter sent to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on September 11 and received by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC), Robredo backed Leonen to succeed Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, who is set to step down from office this coming November.
Robredo emphasized that Leonen stands as the most senior magistrate among the active members of the High Tribunal, praising his track record of impartiality.
“On a personal note, I have witnessed his efforts not only to ensure the proper interpretation of our Constitution and our laws, but also his efforts to ensure social justice, human rights, and institutional integrity,” Robredo stated in her endorsement letter.
She added that Leonen’s dedication has served as a benchmark for judges across appellate and trial courts, as well as members of the legal academia nationwide.
Highlighting his background in judicial governance and collaborative leadership, Robredo expressed confidence in his broad acceptability across various sectors of society.
“I have no doubt that his appointment will be acceptable to all sectors, including big business, small and medium scale entrepreneurs, local and national government officials, and those who suffer from poverty, inequality, and disempowerment,” she added.
In a separate submission to the JBC dated September 4, former Supreme Court Associate Justice Arturo Brion nominated Associate Justice Jose Midas Marquez for the top judicial post, pointing to his performance as a former court administrator.
“He is a person of proven competence, integrity, probity and independence,” Brion said, citing Marquez’s exemplary work ethic throughout his service in the judiciary.