MANILA, Philippines – Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero said that the Judicial Bar Council, tasked to oversee the selection of the next Chief Justice, would discuss and decide whether they would or won’t allow a televised coverage of the selection process.
Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero. EDWARD GANAL / SENATE POOL
In a media conference on Thursday, Escudero said that the JBC has yet to decide but said that he welcomed the proposal.
“It was taken up initially. Some members have reservations but like I said, as far as I’m concerned, I don’t have a problem and I am in favour because that is what we do in the Senate everyday,” Escudero said in Filipino.
When asked about concerns of some parties that a televised coverage would distract members of the JBC during the selection process, Escudero said that it was part of the ball game.
“That’s part of it. I believe in the saying that if it’s right, it should not be kept in the dark. It’s often that the bad things are kept in the dark. If it’s tight and you’re not doing anything wrong, there’s nothing to be afraid of,” Escudero said.
Meanwhile, the JBC intends to submit its shortlist of nominees for chief justice to President Benigno Aquino III on July 15.
“Our tentative schedule is July 15, so that the president will have about one and a half months to study the list, read through it, have the names there investigated, talk to them and find out who is the best person for the job,” Escudero said.
He added that they would accept applications and nominations until June 18, after which they would start the selection process. Escudero added that they would publish the names of all nominees and candidates to get feedback from the public – be it positive or negative.
“We are required by law to submit not less than three names to the president,” he said adding that the president is mandated to appoint a new official 90 days after the post was vacated.
Chief Justice Renato Corona was convicted by the Senate, acting as an impeachment court, in May for failing to declare assets in his statement of assets, liabilities and networth (SALN).