MANILA, Philippines — The Makabayan Coalition has firmly opposed the nomination of Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert to the Court of Appeals, citing her reputation as a “warrant factory judge.” Between 2018 and 2020, while serving as a trial court judge in Quezon City, she reportedly issued numerous arrest orders in controversial cases involving activists and progressive groups.
Makabayan’s letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. dated July 9 highlighted that Villavert issued arrest warrants often “without determining the existence of probable cause” and mere days after receiving applications. This pattern raised serious concerns about due process and judicial fairness.
Makabayan Bloc Opposes Appointment Over Warrants
Villavert’s Branch 89 also authorized a search warrant that led to a police and military raid on the Bayan Muna and Gabriela offices in Negros Occidental. The raid resulted in the arrest of 57 individuals, including 10 minors, accused of participating in firearms and explosives training.
“We write to express our strong opposition to the nomination and appointment of Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert as Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals, or for any higher position within the judiciary, now and in the future,” the coalition said.
They further accused Villavert of repeatedly violating constitutional safeguards against illegal arrests, unreasonable searches, and detentions. Makabayan labeled her the “warrant factory judge” due to her frequent issuance of questionable arrest and search warrants.
Flawed Warrants and Human Rights Concerns
Makabayan brought attention to Villavert’s order that led to the arrest of Reina Mae Nasino, an activist charged with illegal possession of firearms and explosives. Nasino was later acquitted after the prosecution’s evidence was found “flawed and deficient.”
Nasino gave birth to her daughter River while detained but was denied bail and the opportunity to care for her child. Tragically, River passed away three months after birth. The coalition condemned these actions as inhumane and violations of human rights.
“She also issued baseless warrants against trade unionists, women’s groups, urban poor sectors, members of the church, and media personnel,” Makabayan added. They emphasized that Villavert authorized arrests based on unreliable informants and planted evidence, including in Nasino’s case.
Past Opposition to Villavert’s Nomination
This is not the coalition’s first opposition to Villavert’s elevation. On June 5, Bayan Muna party-list urged the Judicial and Bar Council to disqualify her from promotion due to her alleged role in human rights violations and collaboration in the crackdown on activists during the previous administration.
Former Bayan Muna lawmaker Ferdinand Gaite strongly opposed Villavert’s candidacy for higher courts like the Court of Appeals or Sandiganbayan. “Her track record of violating human rights and her collusion with the Duterte administration’s crackdown on activists make her unfit for any higher judicial position,” Gaite said.
Gaite noted that Villavert issued questionable search warrants that led to arrests and fabricated charges against 76 activists, fueling concerns over her judicial conduct.
As of this writing, the Palace has yet to respond to Makabayan’s letter.
For more news and updates on judicial appointments, visit Filipinokami.com.