Outgoing Chief Justice thanks SC employees, apologizes for shortcomings
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Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo attends his last flag ceremony at the Supreme Court and says goodbye to the employees before his mandatory retirement on Friday. 📷 SC Office of the SpokespersonMANILA — Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo thanked officials and employees of the Supreme Court Wednesday after attending his last flag ceremony as the top magistrate.
In his farewell speech, Gesmundo recognized the efforts of court officials and employees as he instituted reforms within the judiciary.
“Wala sa mga tagumpay na ating nakamit ang bunga ng pagsisikap ng iisang tao lamang. Ang lahat ng ito ay naisakatuparan dahil sa bawat isa sa inyo,” Gesmundo said.
He urged officials and employees to continue their work amid challenges facing the judiciary.
“Ngunit buo ang aking tiwala na ipagpapatuloy ninyo ang ating nasimulan, at haharapin ninyo nang buong tapang, kakayahan, at malasakit ang mga hamon na darating,” Gesmundo said.
He also extended his apologies for his shortcomings.
“Sa pagkakataong ito, ako ay humihingi ng paumanhin kung may mga pagkakataong ako ay nakasakit ng inyong damdamin, nakapagbigay ng kabiguan, o hindi nakatugon sa inyong mga inaasahan,” Gesmundo said.
Gesmundo will compulsorily retire as he turns 70 on November 6.
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is set to appoint the country’s 28th Chief Justice, from five current Associate Justices vying for the post.