Solons tell Sereno critics: Give her breathing space

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Lawmakers on Friday urged critics of newly appointed Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno to give her some “breathing space” and time to undertake reforms in the judiciary.

Aurora Representative Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara and Western Samar Representative Mel Senen Sarmiento shared the same sentiments for Sereno who has recently been the subject of criticism due to her appointment as head of the Supreme Court, bypassing several senior justices.

“As the youngest member of the High Court, it will surely be a challenge for Chief Justice Sereno to lead her older and more experienced peers but it is a chance for her to transform and reform the judiciary. Let’s give her the chance,” said Angara.

Sarmiento felt confident that President Benigno Aquino III chose the right person to lead the high court, saying that he saw Sereno as someone who could “rise up to all the challenges facing the nation’s judicial system.”

But Angara echoed House majority leader Neptali Gonzales II’s statement earlier this week wherein he asked Sereno to start reforms as early as she can. The Aurora lawmaker said that the new chief magistrate should not be complacent with the 18-year term she has been given.