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Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro on Tuesday denied speculations that she was seeking a position as an associate justice of the Supreme Court (SC).
During a press briefing in Cagayan de Oro City, Castro appeared surprised when asked to comment on a report that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. might appoint Associate Justice Rodil Zalameda as the next chief justice, potentially opening up a vacancy for which she could apply.
“Supreme Court Justice, si Ante Kler? Associate Justice ng Supreme Court, si Ante Kler?” Castro said.
(Me, as a Supreme Court justice? As an associate justice of the Supreme Court?)
She then clarified that she had not applied for the position.
“Hindi ako nag-apply, so wala pong katotohanan ‘yan,” she said.
(I did not apply, so there is no truth to that.)
Castro also said she would not preempt Marcos’ decision on whom to appoint as the next chief justice.
“Kung sinuman ang mapipili ng Pangulo bilang susunod na chief justice ng Supreme Court, ayaw po nating pangunahan kung sinuman ang mapipili ng Pangulo,” she said.
(Whoever the President chooses as the next chief justice of the Supreme Court, we do not want to preempt his decision.)
She added that all the nominees were capable, but expressed confidence that the President would choose someone who stood out.
“Lahat naman sila ay magaling, pero siyempre merong namumukod-tangi,” Castro said.
(All of the candidates are capable, but of course, there is someone who stands out.)
She reiterated that reports of her seeking an associate justice position were unfounded.
The Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) has concluded its interviews for the next chief justice and is set to submit its list of nominees to the President.
The vacancy will arise from the compulsory retirement of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo on Nov. 6, when he turns 70. — MCG, GMA News
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