IBP, JBC ink agreement to improve selection process of judges

The Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) have signed a memorandum of agreement seeking to improve the selection process of judges and other legal officials, the Supreme Court (SC) announced Friday.

In a statement, the SC said that IBP representatives will be deputized to conduct independent background investigations on applicants and issue nominations.

Meanwhile, it said the JBC will provide the necessary data for the background checks. It added that the JBC will also officially deputize IBP representatives to assist its selection process.

“This will help ensure that only those who meet the highest standards of competence, integrity, and impartiality are nominated,” the SC said.

According to the High Court, the signing was held Thursday, September 11.

The JBC is tasked to submit nominees for vacant judicial positions to the President. 

It is composed of the Chief Justice as ex officio chairman, the Secretary of Justice, and a representative of the Congress as ex officio members, a representative of the Integrated Bar, a professor of law, a retired member of the Supreme Court, and a representative of the private sector.—LDF, GMA Integrated News