Manila:President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. honored outgoing Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo on Wednesday, acknowledging his public service and contributions to the Philippine justice system.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos conferred the Order of Lakandula with the Rank of Grand Cross (Bayani) on Gesmundo during a ceremony at Malacañang, which was attended by judiciary officials and family members.

Gesmundo is set to retire upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70 on November 6, after serving five years as chief justice. Under the Constitution, Marcos has 90 days from Gesmundo’s retirement to appoint his successor. The Judicial and Bar Council has shortlisted Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen and Associate Justices Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa, Rodil Zalameda, Japar Dimaampao, and Jose Midas Marquez for the position.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro indicated that President Marcos is expected to announce the next chief justice within the week. Castro noted that all candidates possess their own strengths and integrity, and the final decision will be made by the President.