Some attendees say “Red Monday” was in support of justices who asked Sereno to go on “indefinite leave”
(Eagle News) — Several Supreme Court officials and employees wore red during the High Court’s flag-raising ceremony on Monday, an act which they said was in support of the justices who called for Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno to go on indefinite leave.
Also attending the flag-raising ceremony were Associate Justices Teresita Leonardo De Castro, Marvic Leonen, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin, Mariano Del Castillo, Francis Jardeleza, Andres Reyes Jr., Noel Tijam, Samuel Martirez and Alexander Gesmundo.
De Castro wore a dress with red flowers, while some male justices wore red ties.
Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez, who also wore a red tie, was also present.
The Supreme Court’s so-called “Red Monday” comes days after Sereno went on leave supposedly to prepare for her defense in the impeachment trial against her in the Senate.
Sereno’s spokespersons had earlier described the leave as a “wellness leave” which they said she already planned beforehand.
But the SC, in a press conference, said the leave was an “indefinite” one which Sereno agreed to take upon prodding by 13 justices.
Sereno’s spokespersons later apologized.
The House justice panel is expected to vote on whether there was probable cause for the impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Larry Gadon, on Thursday.