The Philippine Supreme Court is about to change leadership. Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo reaches the mandatory retirement age of 70 on November 6, 2026, ending his term at the head of the judiciary.
The shortlist
The Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) has submitted its shortlist to Malacañang. It includes all five senior associate justices who applied and qualified:
- Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen
- Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa
- Associate Justice Rodil V. Zalameda
- Associate Justice Japar B. Dimaampao
- Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez
Who leads the Court in the meantime?
If the President has not appointed a new Chief Justice by the time Gesmundo retires, Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen will serve as acting Chief Justice. This follows the practice of having the most senior associate justice lead the Court during a vacancy.
How the Chief Justice is chosen
Under the 1987 Constitution:
- The JBC screens applicants and submits a list of at least three nominees for every vacancy.
- The President appoints the Chief Justice from that list. No confirmation by Congress is needed.
- The President must fill the vacancy within 90 days from when it occurs.
- Members of the Supreme Court must retire at 70.
Why it matters
The Chief Justice leads the Supreme Court en banc and the administration of the entire judiciary. That role drives court reforms such as the recent nationwide rollout of electronic notarization, digitalization of court processes, and rules on the use of technology and AI in legal practice. Whoever is appointed will shape these programs for years to come.
Stay updated
We’ll publish updates on the appointment and the new Chief Justice’s priorities in our Legal Updates section. If you have a pending case or need advice on how court reforms affect you, contact Recososa Law Firm.
This article is for general information only and is not legal advice.