Judges Ulric Cañete and Marilyn B. Lagura-Yap of the regional trial courts in Mandaue City, and Meinrado Paredes and Sylva G. Paderanga of the regional trial courts in Cebu City were among the 96 applicants for the CA's four associate justice positions.
The Judicial and Bar Council has already interviewed the applicants to find out who among them are qualified for the positions.
Three of the associate justice posts became vacant following the appointment of former justice Arturo D. Brion as secretary of Department of Labor and Employment, and the compulsory retirement of Justices Godardo A. Jacinto on August 20 and Vicente L. Yap on August 22.
Justice Santiago J. Ranada, who will retire on November 10, is set to vacate the other associate justice post.
The interviews of the JBC are aimed at determining the applicants' probity and independence of mind, and evaluating their readiness and commitment to assume their duties and responsibilities. - Rene U. Borromeo/LPM