G.R. No.: A.M. No. 09-5-2-SC and A.C. No. 8292
Date: July 5, 2011

Case Parties/Title:
A.M. No. 09-5-2-SC: RE: BREWING CONTROVERSIES IN THE ELECTIONS IN THE INTEGRATED BAR OF THE PHILIPPINES
A.C. No. 8292: ATTY. MARCIAL M. MAGSINO, MANUEL M. MARAMBA and NASSER MAROHOMSALIC, Complainants, vs. ATTY. ROGELIO A. VINLUAN, ABELARDO C. ESTRADA, BONIFACIO T. BARANDON, JR., EVERGISTO S. ESCALON and RAYMUND JORGE A. MERCADO, Respondents.

FACTS

Due to brewing controversies in the 2009 elections for certain members of the Board of Governors of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) for the term 2009 to 2011, the Supreme Court designated Justice (Ret.) Santiago M. Kapunan as Officer-In-Charge of the IBP.

ISSUE

The primary issue was the leadership vacuum and potential chaos within the IBP due to the election controversies, which necessitated Supreme Court intervention to ensure stability and continuity in the performance of the IBP’s duties.

RULING

The Supreme Court resolved to express its deep appreciation and recognition for the invaluable service rendered by Justice (Ret.) Santiago M. Kapunan as Officer-In-Charge of the 2009-2011 IBP Board of Governors. The Court found that Justice Kapunan competently assisted in the supervision of the legal profession by providing leadership and guidance during a chaotic and confusing period, ably filled the leadership vacuum, and effectively steered the IBP in continuing its duties during the transition.