Atty. Ting reiterates BNC exclusive: Justice Leonen to serve as acting Chief Justice

September 22, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

Supreme Court spokesperson Atty. Camille Sue Mae Ting on Tuesday reiterated that Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen will serve as acting Chief Justice once Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo retires in November.

Ting first disclosed the development in an exclusive interview with Bilyonaryo News Channel’s At The Forefront hosted by Atty. Karen Jimeno.

In a statement responding to media inquiries, Ting said Leonen will assume the duties of Chief Justice pending the appointment of Gesmundo’s successor.

“This is pursuant to Section 12 of Republic Act No. 296, or the Judiciary Act of 1948,” Ting said.

She stressed that the law provides that when the Chief Justice post is vacant, its duties and powers shall be exercised by the most senior Associate Justice until a new Chief Justice is appointed and qualified.

Gesmundo is set to retire on Nov. 6 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.

Ting also cited the Constitution, which requires a vacancy in the SC to be filled within 90 days.

The President appoints the Chief Justice from a list of nominees prepared by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC).

Consistent with JBC practice, the five most senior Associate Justices were invited to apply for the Chief Justice post as preferred candidates.

Leonen is the most senior among the five, followed by Associate Justices Benjamin Caguioa, Ramon Paul Hernando, Henri Jean Paul Inting and Rodil Zalameda.#