State leadership is preparing to bestow one of the nation’s premier civilian awards on the head of the judiciary, highlighting a upcoming leadership transition in the Supreme Court.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will confer the Order of Lakandula, with the rank of Grand Cross (Bayani), on Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo on Wednesday in recognition of his public service and contributions to the judicial system.
The Order of Lakandula stands as one of the highest honors conferred on civilians for political and civic merit.
Established on September 19, 2003, the award is named after Lakan Bunao Dula, the last ruler of Tondo in Manila before Spanish forces assumed control.
The civilian honor recognizes leadership, prudence, fortitude, courage, and resolve in public service.
Gesmundo serves as the 27th chief justice, leading the High Tribunal since 2021. He previously served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court beginning in 2017.
The conferment precedes his scheduled departure from the bench, as Gesmundo is set to reach mandatory retirement on November 6.