PH Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo set to retire this week

Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo is set to retire at the end of the week upon reaching the mandatory age of 70, leaving behind a tenure marked by technological modernization and structural reform.

First appointed as an associate justice in 2017 and elevated to the high court’s 27th chief magistrate in 2021, Gesmundo navigated the judiciary through the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic while accelerating digital initiative across the court system.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA), Associate Justice Midas Marquez praised Gesmundo’s transformative leadership and dedication to innovation and public service. Marquez highlighted his steady guidance during a period of rapid technological change.

Beyond judicial administration, Gesmundo consistently advocated for professional standards across sectors. Amid the rise of artificial intelligence and social media influencers, he emphasized the critical need for ethical, accountable journalism to maintain reliable public information.

Legal practitioners have also noted his lasting impact on the profession. Private lawyer Raymund Martelino highlighted Gesmundo’s rollout of the updated Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability and the Unified Legal Aid Service as pivotal steps toward expanding access to justice and enforcing strict ethical standards.

Paraluman News from a report of Benjamin Pulta/Philippine News Agency