KIKO ON THE ALLEGED SALE OF TROs

"I view with grave concern the reports of certain members of the judiciary, particularly according to reports, some justices from the Court of Appeals to sell Temporary Restraining Orders. This is alarming especially now that administrative cases decided upon by the Ombudsman are reviewed only by the Court of Appeals through petitions for certiorari.

The watch list released by the Office of the Ombudsman and the Supreme Court on these erring justices is a welcome move to address the problem. We encourage a swift and careful investigation on this issue. We believe Chief Justice Puno will leave no stone unturned to get to the bottom of this to ensure that erring members be held accountable if guilty of malicious practice.

Recognizing that the bench should also be protected from people who may besmirch their reputation, the Supreme Court should also immediately act to protect its credibility and maintain the public's trust in our justice system."