MATI, Davao Oriental, Philippines?Those opposing the Supreme Court's decision that allowed President Macapagal-Arroyo to appoint the next Chief Justice still have ample time to submit their motion for reconsideration, a court official said Thursday.

Midas Marquez, Supreme Court administrator and spokesperson, said Ms Arroyo could only appoint the next Chief Justice on May 17, which is about two months from Thursday.

"I hope they file it right away so that a decision can be had right away and the case can be terminated," Marquez said during a stopover of the Justice on Wheels here.

He said while those opposing the decision were quick to air criticisms against Supreme Court, they have yet to file their formal motion for reconsideration.

"The decision only came out Wednesday but we have these kinds of views and opinions against the decision already," Marquez said.

He said for the Supreme Court, there was a need to put the issue to a close already but that can only be done when it receives a motion for reconsideration.

"There is a need to put a close to the issue," Marquez said.

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines Davao del Sur chapter said it was ready to file a motion anytime.

Lawyer Israelito Torreon, IBP chapter president, said it was already clear that there is "blanket prohibition, under the 1987 Constitution, to the President to make appointments within the prohibitory period.

He said the law was very clear that it does not even require a judicial interpretation anymore.

"The rule of law must prevail and not the dictates or whims of a fading but infamous regime," Torreon said.

Marquez also explained that the decision that was not unanimous as some quarters wanted it to appear.

"What I am saying is that it should be looked closely before comments are made. They have different opinions. We always hear about 9-1-2-3. But even the 9 justices were not unanimous. Five of them said that the election ban does not cover all appointments in the judiciary, and four said that what is not being covered is the appointment in the Supreme Court only," he said.
Marquez said the conclusions were based on careful study of the case.

He also urged groups opposing the move to trust the High Court to resolve the issue.

Meanwhile, Marquez said the Supreme Court already asked the Judicial and Bar Council for the shortlist of its nominees, from which Ms Arroyo will select the next chief magistrate.

He said the JBC can be cited for contempt if it continues to defy the order.