De Lima accepts nomination, says SC needs ‘trusted leader’

MANILA, Philippines – Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, a trusted ally of President Aquino, has decided to join the race for the top post in the judiciary.

On Sunday, July 1, she announced that she has accepted the nomination for the Chief Justice position.

“What the judiciary needs is an effective and trusted leader. That, to me, is the call of the times,” she said in a statement.

“After a deeper reflection and further consultations with my family and close confidants, and amidst my initial hesitance and apprehensions, I now feel that I will be up to the challenge and will now take on the challenge. “I’ll be honored to submit myself to the scrutiny of my peers at the JBC (Judicial and Bar Council) and the general public, for eventual consideration of the President,” she added.

“I sincerely believe that, at the minimum, I have my character and resolve as a person, and my track record and passion as a public servant, to offer for such a crucial and revered post,” De Lima wrote.

De Lima’s acceptance comes two days after President Aquino talked to her on Friday, June 29, and convinced her to make a run for the post that was vacated by ousted former Chief Justice Renato Corona.

De Lima was one of the witnesses in the months-long impeachment trial against Corona.

She is considered one of the top choices of President Aquino to replace Corona.

Previously, De Lima told President Aquino to consider Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio for the job. Carpio is the most senior among the High Court justices and was automatically nominated. Carpio confirmed that he is interested in taking over as CJ.  

President Aquino reportedly has reservations about Carpio because of his links with an influential law firm, Villaraza Cruz Marcelo & Angangco. He trusts De Lima more. – Rappler.com

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