World

President Marcos Appoints Rodil Zalameda as New Chief Justice

Rodil Zalameda has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of the Philippines, succeeding Alexander Gesmundo ahead of his retirement.

6 November 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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President Marcos Appoints Rodil Zalameda as New Chief Justice — Photo: Kej Andrés (Ryomaandres) · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Associate Justice Rodil V. Zalameda as the new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. The announcement was made by Presidential Communications Office Secretary Lino Cayetano, confirming Zalameda's selection to succeed Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, who is set to retire on November 6, 2026.

Zalameda, 63, is the 28th Chief Justice of the Philippines and previously served as an associate justice in the Supreme Court. His extensive career in the legal profession spans more than three decades, during which he has held positions such as city prosecutor and justice on the Court of Appeals.

In addition to his judicial roles, Zalameda is known for penning a significant ruling that acquitted former first lady Imelda Marcos of multiple graft charges. This notable judgment drew attention to his legal career, especially prior to his promotion to Chief Justice.

Following the announcement, Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua extended his congratulations to Zalameda on behalf of the Bangsamoro government. In his statement, Macacua noted the significance of Zalameda's new role within the judiciary.

Zalameda takes the helm with an expressed commitment to addressing corruption within the judiciary and ensuring its independence and capabilities. His appointment marks the second addition to the Supreme Court made by President Marcos Jr., following his earlier appointments since taking office.

Zalameda's oath-taking ceremony included the presence of all 15 members of the Supreme Court en banc, and it took place on Friday, November 5, 2026, following the announcement of his appointment. This transition occurs as Chief Justice Gesmundo concludes his final day in office.

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