Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Raul Villanueva, the Supreme Court's Court Administrator, as the new associate justice of the Supreme Court. This marks Marcos' first appointment to the high court since taking office.
According to Philippines News Agency, Villanueva took his oath of office in a ceremony held at Malaca±ang, with President Marcos administering the oath. Villanueva steps into the role following the retirement of Associate Justice Mario Lopez, who left the position on June 4.
President Marcos commented on Villanueva's appointment, emphasizing his experience and contributions as a judge. Villanueva's judicial career began in 2022, where he served as the presiding judge of the Las Pi±as City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 255. He also held positions as the acting presiding judge for the Taguig City RTC Branch 267 and the Manila RTC Branch 4.
In a brief press statement, President Marcos highlighted Villanueva's capabilities and expressed optimism about his ability to foster a positive working relationship between the Supreme Court and the executive branch.
