MANILA, Philippines — Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Arturo Brion has nominated Associate Justice Jose Midas Marquez for chief justice as the Judicial and Bar Council begins the selection process for the country’s next top magistrate.
Brion submitted his nomination in a Sept. 4, 2026, letter addressed to Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo and members of the JBC.
Gesmundo will retire on Nov. 6, prompting the JBC to accept nominations and applications for the upcoming vacancy.
Brion cited Marquez’s work ethic, dedication to public service and experience in judicial administration during his tenure on the Supreme Court.
“I had the privilege of witnessing Associate Justice Marquez’s exemplary work ethic and dedication to public service during my tenure in the Court, particularly while he served as Court Administrator,” Brion said.
Brion also highlighted Marquez’s experience in adjudication and court management, particularly his previous service as court administrator.
“His invaluable contributions to the Judiciary, especially in improving court operations and providing effective leadership to judges and court personnel, have undoubtedly strengthened the administration of justice,” Brion said.
Brion also said Marquez could help sustain the judiciary’s modernization efforts under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027, which Gesmundo initiated during his tenure.
JBC begins selection process
The nomination marks the second time an individual or group has endorsed Marquez for the position.
The Association of Retired Regional Trial Courts of the Philippines nominated Marquez on Sept. 1.
Sources said Marquez has not yet accepted either nomination. Under the JBC process, a nominee becomes an applicant only after accepting the nomination.
The JBC has also invited the five most senior Supreme Court associate justices to apply for the position.
They are Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen and Associate Justices Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa, Ramon Paul L. Hernando, Henri Jean Paul B. Inting and Rodil V. Zalameda.
Supreme Court spokesperson Camille Ting said the JBC has followed the practice of inviting the most senior associate justices since the early 2000s.
She said the practice began as an informal tradition based on courtesy and seniority before the JBC formalized it as standing policy.
The JBC will evaluate the nominees and applicants before submitting its shortlist to the appointing authority for the selection of Gesmundo’s successor.