Marcos swears in Zalameda, stresses speedy justice

President Marcos swears in Rodil Zalameda as Chief Justice at Malacañang on November 9, 2026.

STAR / File

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday emphasized the importance of an independent judiciary and speedy disposition of justice as he administered the oath of newly appointed Chief Justice Rodil Zalameda.

Zalameda, who succeeded retired chief magistrate Alexander Gesmundo, took his oath of office at Malacañang.

“If the resolution of a case drags on, it does not only waste time. It also adds anxiety and waiting time to families who are seeking justice,” Marcos said in a Facebook post.

The Chief Executive highlighted ongoing efforts to fast-track the resolution of cases and to ensure that Filipinos are treated fairly while respecting the independence of the judiciary.

“The President emphasized the importance of a strong, independent and accessible judiciary in upholding the rights of every Filipino and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld,” the Presidential Communications Office said in a statement.

“This includes strengthening trial courts, modernizing court services, promoting accountability and maintaining integrity and impartiality in the administration of justice,” it added.

Zalameda served as associate justice of the Court of Appeals for 11 years before his appointment to the Supreme Court in 2019.

The country’s top magistrate has been in the legal practice for more than 30 years, having worked as branch clerk of the Makati City Regional Trial Court, private law practitioner, public prosecutor, city prosecutor of Mandaluyong, presiding justice of the Court of Appeals’ 17th Division and SC associate justice.

Prior to his appointment as chief justice, critics questioned his independence, pointing out that he penned the SC decision that reversed the conviction on seven counts of graft of Marcos’ mother Imelda.

Malacañang has expressed optimism that Zalameda would be impartial, noting that he has extensive legal experience.

His appointment has drawn controversy, with critics pointing out that he penned the SC decision this year reversing the conviction of Marcos’ mother Imelda on seven counts of graft related to the Swiss bank deposits that were returned to the Philippines after being deemed ill-gotten by the SC in 2003.