Leni Robredo endorses Marvic Leonen for Chief Justice

September 23, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

Former Vice President and now Naga City Mayor Maria Leonor “Leni” G. Robredo has endorsed Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen for Chief Justice.

In her letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a copy of which was also sent to the Judicial and Bar Council, Robredo described Leonen as the court’s most senior justice and praised his “competence, independence, probity, and integrity.”

“He has shown neither fear nor favor,” Robredo said.

Robredo also cited Leonen’s extensive body of decisions and separate opinions, his experience as acting Chief Justice and chair of various SC committees, and his role in the judiciary’s digitalization efforts.

She also cited Leonen’s work in helping forge the framework agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front before his appointment to the SC and his role in introducing digital and localized Bar examinations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“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,” Robredo said.

Leonen is among five senior associate justices invited by the JBC to apply for the Chief Justice post, which will become vacant upon the mandatory retirement of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo on Nov. 6.#