Congress to decide on whether to appeal SC ruling on representation at JBC

Senator Francis Escudero. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Tuesday said that the two Houses of Congress have yet to decide on the appropriate action regarding their representation at the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) in the selection of the next Chief Justice.

“It will be up to the heads of the House and the Senate to take the appropriate action on what Congress, as one institution, will agree upon regarding this matter,” Escudero said in a statement. Escudero used to represent the Senate at the JBC, but decided to bow out in favor of the House of Representative’s Niel Tupas.

Escudero said he would consult with Senate President Juan ponce Enrile on the matter on Tuesday. Nevertheless, he said that they would comply with the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling that Congress is entitled to only one vote in the JBC selection.

“The Supreme Court has already rendered a decision that is immediately executory. We are complying with the decision in the interim that only one representative should sit for the Philippine Congress in the Judicial and Bar Council,” Escudero said.

Escudero added that in compliance with the SC ruling, only Representative Niel Tupas, in an ex-officio capacity, was present to represent Congress during Tuesday’s first day of interview of the Chief Justice nominees.

“Whether this is for the whole duration of the interview process for all applicants will be decided by both Chambers,” Escudero said.