CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines — Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro has put to rest rumors linking her to an upcoming vacancy on the Supreme Court, firmly clarifying that she never applied for a judicial post.
During a press briefing in Cagayan de Oro on Tuesday, October 27, Castro playfully dismissed the speculations when questioned by reporters about a potential appointment to the country’s highest tribunal.
Responding to the buzz with lighthearted amusement, she remarked:
“Supreme Court Justice? Si Ante Claire?”
“Associate Justice ng Supreme Court? Si Auntie Claire? Hindi ako nag-apply. So wala pong katotohanan iyan,”
The rumors gained traction as the Supreme Court prepares for the mandatory retirement of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, who turns 70 on November 6. The Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) has already wrapped up interviews for candidates vying to succeed him, leaving the final choice to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. from the official shortlist.
Amid speculation pointing to Associate Justice Rodil Zalameda as a top contender for the Chief Justice position, Castro declined to confirm or comment on any frontrunners, emphasizing that Malacañang refuses to preempt the President’s prerogative.
Expressing full confidence in the selection process, Castro noted:
“Ayaw po natin pangunahan kung sino man mapipili ng Pangulo. At asahan natin na ang pipiliin ng Pangulo ay, lahat naman sila ay magaling, pero siyempre merong namumukod tangi.”