Former Chief Justice Reynato Puno. INQUIRER file photo
MANILA, Philippines—After a divisive impeachment trial that led to the ouster of his successor, former Chief Justice Reynato Puno said Friday the next leader of the Supreme Court should be one who can heal the wounds inflicted by impeachment process and keep the independence of the court while cooperating with the other branches of the government.
The person to replace former Chief Justice Renato Corona “should be able to heal the wounds of the judiciary, should be a great harmonizer,” Puno told reporters at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
“He should be able to inspire the judges and the employees so that the court may begin a new chapter in its history,” Puno added.
Puno was at the DENR where he and Environment Secretary Ramon Paje signed the incorporation articles of a foundation that would help the families of slain DENR employees.
The next chief justice should also maintain and defend the high court’s independence, while cooperating with the other branches of the government, Puno said.
“We need a new chief justice who can also relate to the two other branches of the government, the Congress and the Executive. In a democratic government, the key to success is interdependence,” Puno said.
Puno said President Aquino could appoint the next chief justice from outside the judiciary.
Whoever is chosen as the next chief justice, he or she should not feel indebted to the President. Political loyalty should “not be part of the equation,” Puno said. The President should also respect the independence of the court, he added.
“Don’t consider personal loyalty,” he said. Asked for his opinion of Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio, a former colleague, Puno declined to comment, saying he did not want to prejudge the names submitted to Judicial and Bar Council.