CHIEF Justice Alexander Gesmundo reminded members of Siklab Laya Class 2025 of the Philippine Military Academy that civilian authority is supreme over the military.

Gesmundo made the statement during PMA’s Recognition Rites in Baguio City where he served as the guest speaker.

“Since soon you will become commissioned officers of our Armed Forces, let me remind you of Article II, Section 3 of our  Constitution, with the intention of instilling  in you this provision: ‘Civilian  authority  is, at  all times, supreme over the military,’” Gesmundo said.

“Remember that this provision makes explicit the principle of civilian supremacy. Civilian supremacy…is not a guaranteed supremacy of civilian officers who are in power, but the supremacy of the sovereign people,” he added.

The chief justice was honored by the PMA when he trooped the line with PMA Suprintendent Lt. Gen. Ferdinand M. Cartujano of the Philippine Air Force.

SC justices were in Baguio City for their traditional summer sessions which ended on Friday, April 28.