Subject to recognition?

MANILA, Philippines - Today, May 15, on his radio program on DZMM, Dean Amado Valdez talked about the impending appointment of Supreme Court Associate Justice Renato Corona as next Chief Justice.

After confirming that Pres. Arroyo had the first 43 days of the 90-day period from May 17 within which to appoint Chief Justice Puno’s replacement, he went on to add that President Arroyo’s exercise of executive prerogative was subject to Noynoy Aquino’s “recognition.”

There is nothing in the Constitution that talks about the appointment being contingent on Noynoy’s recognition.

It is surprising for such a learned lawyer like Dean Amado Valdez to fall for the “recognition line.”

By the way, Noynoy taking his oath before a Barangay Chairman is simply bringing democracy to its most basic level.

Thank you.