Tabuk City, Kalinga - Two of the Philippine highest judicial leaders, Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo and Senior Associate Justice Marvic Mario Victor F. Leonen, were hailed as adopted sons of Kalinga during the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Cultural Night, which was held on Monday, November 25 at the Kalinga Astrodome.
Kalinga names were bestowed on the two justices in recognition of the excellent contributions they have for the judiciary and their alignment with the province's values. The title "Magma-u" was accorded to Chief Justice Gesmundo, while Senior Associate Justice Leonen was conferred the title "Wanawan".
Chief Justice Gesmundo as "Magma-u"
As cited by the province’s information office, Chief Justice Gesmundo was conferred the title "Magma-u," which means leadership and tenacity, for his commitment to the country's judicial system for decades. He was legally adopted through Resolution No. 2024-322 passed by the Kalinga Provincial Board.
An alumnus of the Ateneo de Manila University and passed the bar exam in 1985, Gesmundo had a remarkable career full of many achievements, including his time as Assistant Solicitor General until his appointment as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in April 2021.
Due to his leadership and efforts in judicial reforms centered on fair, timely, and transparent justice, he is widely praised at the national level.
Senior Associate Justice Leonen as "Wanawan"
Meantime, the title "Wanawan", which connotes enlightenment and advocacy, was conferred to Senior Associate Justice Leonen in recognition of his stellar career and consistent advocacy of the rights of Indigenous Peoples. He was also legally adopted by the province through Resolution No. 2024-323, approved also by the Kalinga Provincial Board.
A Magna Cumlaude graduate of the University of the Philippines, Leonen finished his AB Economics degree and topped his law class in the College of Law in 1987, where he ranked fourth.
In July 2010, he was appointed by then-President Benigno Aquino III as the Chief Negotiator of the Philippine government with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). He was one of the leaders of the country in the peace talks between the MILF and the Philippine government at that time.
On 27 March 2014, the Philippine government and MILF signed the Comprehensive Agreement in Manila. The agreement was the final step in ending years of armed conflict between the two parties.
With their Kalinga titles, both justices embrace the unwavering backing of the province as well as the recognition of the Kalinga people. The ceremonial adoption is a testament of Kalinga’s deep respect for cultural integrity, equality, and leadership.
The two justices carry with them not only Kalinga titles but also the enduring support and gratitude of a province that values justice, peace, and cultural integrity.
.png)
Comments