SENATOR FRANCIS PANGILINAN'S STATEMENT ON SC AFFIRMING DECISION ALLOWING GMA TO APPOINT NEXT CJ

"As a lawyer and legislator, I am deeply disturbed and disheartened by this decision allowing the President to appoint the next Chief Justice despite the clear and categorical prohibition found in Section 15 Article 7 of the Constitution."

"Why give an outgoing President, whose presidency ends 13 days after the vacancy occurs, the legal authority to make such an appointment? It defies common sense. I am in utter disbelief."

"I cannot see how either the Supreme Court or our respect for the rule of law can benefit from such an extremely controversial appointment. I am almost tempted to request that my name by stricken off the roll of attorneys. It is a very sad day for lawyers nationwide."