JBC opens applications for SC post

MANILA, Philippines — The Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) has opened the applications for a Supreme Court seat that will be vacated by Associate Justice Mario Lopez, who will retire on June 4.

The JBC will accept applications until March 28.

Interested applicants may access the JBC online registration and application system through the Philippine Judiciary Platform.

Aspirants will be screened and verified as to the completeness and accuracy of their documentary requirements.

Those who prefer to send their documentary requirements through registered mail or private courier should make sure that the documents are complete, updated and received by the JBC.

The applicant should also send through email a copy of the mailing receipt on the same day.

“The date of submission of the formal online application should be deemed as the date of filing,” the JBC said.

The judicial body said false statements, misrepresentation or concealment of any information will be grounds for disqualification from being nominated and may be subject to perjury.

Lopez, who was appointed to the high tribunal in 2019, will reach the mandatory retirement age of 70 on June 4.

His successor will be selected from a shortlist of nominees prepared by the JBC and forwarded to President Marcos for final appointment.