LSN News › Philippines

Politics · Philippines Bureau

Pangilinan urges new Chief Justice to restore public faith in courts

Senator Francis Pangilinan has called on newly-appointed Supreme Court Chief Justice Rodil Zalameda to undertake sweeping reforms aimed at rebuilding Filipinos' confidence in the judiciary. Zalameda assumes his post as Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo concludes his term.

LSN Philippines · 6 November 2026

Pangilinan urges new Chief Justice to restore public faith in courts

MANILA — Senator Francis 'Kiko' Pangilinan challenged Supreme Court Chief Justice Rodil Zalameda on Friday to spearhead reforms that would restore public trust in the Philippine justice system.

Zalameda, appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., took over the helm of the country's highest court following the retirement of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo. The leadership transition marks a significant moment for the judiciary, which has faced mounting public skepticism in recent years.

Pangilinan's appeal underscores growing concerns about the performance and credibility of the justice system among ordinary Filipinos. The senator emphasized that restoring institutional confidence would be crucial to Zalameda's tenure as the nation's top judicial officer.

As the new Chief Justice takes office, observers are watching closely to see what policy priorities and administrative changes Zalameda will implement during his leadership of the Supreme Court. His appointment comes at a time when reform-minded voices in government have called for measures to strengthen judicial independence and efficiency.