EDITORIAL – A new chief justice

For the first time since the Marcos regime, the tradition of seniority has been broken in the selection of the chief justice. Whether or not President Arroyo has made a wise choice will soon become evident. There are major issues that are pending or are expected to reach the Supreme Court that is now headed by Artemio Panganiban.

The 21st Chief Justice takes over from Hilario Davide Jr., who presided over the impeachment trial of deposed President Joseph Estrada. The Davide Supreme Court handed down many landmark rulings, a number of which were hailed by the public. But the Davide court will best be remembered for upholding the legitimacy of the Arroyo administration using the concept of "constructive resignation" — an argument that Estrada continues to dispute. That ruling forever tied the Davide court, unfairly or not, to the political fortunes of President Arroyo. Panganiban must improve the image of the Supreme Court as an independent tribunal.

The new Chief Justice will not only preside over the court’s deliberations on major controversies but must also oversee reforms in a judicial system tainted by corruption and plagued by incompetence. Panganiban is not new to the task; he has taken a direct hand in reforming the judiciary. Judicial housecleaning, however, is a tall order. It’s not just ordinary Filipinos who are losing faith in the judiciary. Even foreigners have pointed out that the country’s weak judicial system is a major disincentive to investments and a hindrance to development.

As the new head of the nation’s court of last resort, Panganiban, who has only a year left in the judicial service, will play a key role in creating a truly strong republic and a vibrant democracy. The new Chief Justice appears ready to rise to the challenge. As he was sworn into office yesterday, he likened himself to Pope Benedict XVI, saying he had been chosen to do great things for the country. That may strike some quarters as hubris, but many others wish him well. This nation can use greatness in the judiciary.