Case Summary (A.M. No. RTJ-15-2405)
Complaint Overview
The administrative complaint was initiated against Judge Jacinto for alleged gross violations of the Canons of the Code of Judicial Conduct and Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The complainants claimed that the judge exhibited bias and partiality favoring Mayor Jose T. Villarosa of San Jose, who sought to demolish the public market for a new commercial project.
Background of Legal Actions
On June 26, 2012, the complainants filed a Petition for Prohibition with an application for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the Municipality and Mayor Villarosa. The case was designated as Special Civil Action No. R-1731 and assigned to Judge Jacinto. A TRO was issued on June 27, 2012, but the hearings showed uneven treatment regarding courtroom access for the parties involved.
Courtroom Incidents
During the hearings held on July 2 and 3, 2012, complainants were reportedly treated unfairly, with only a fraction of their group allowed inside the courtroom, while Mayor Villarosa's entourage was permitted entry. Complainants also alleged that the judge’s questioning was biased, aiming to undermine their opposition to the Mayor’s plans, culminating in a decision to lift the TRO.
Allegations of Unprofessional Conduct
The complainants accused Judge Jacinto of berating and confusing their witnesses during the hearings without justification. Specific instances were cited, including the judge's abrasive remarks and dismissive attitude towards the complainants and their legal arguments.
Investigating Justice's Findings
The investigating justice tasked with examining the situation acknowledged the judge's failure to maintain proper decorum and respect for the parties in court. It was noted that the judge had raised his voice inappropriately and made disparaging comments about the complainants, which undermined the dignity of his office.
Judicial Code Violations
The report indicated that Judge Jacinto’s conduct violated several provisions of the New Code of Judicial Conduct, including maintaining order and decorum in court proceedings and ensuring that the judiciary's integrity is perceived as above reproach. His actions fostered doubt regarding his impartiality and potentially damaged public confidence in the judicial system.
Previous Disciplinary A
...continue readingCase Syllabus (A.M. No. RTJ-15-2405)
Case Overview
- This case involves an administrative complaint filed against Judge Jose S. Jacinto Jr. by a group of complainants, including Antonio S. AscaAo, Jr., Consolacion D. Dantes, and others.
- The complaint alleges gross and serious violations of the Canons of the Code of Judicial Conduct & Judicial Ethics, as well as violations of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
- The underlying issue pertains to Judge Jacinto's conduct during hearings related to the complainants' Petition for Prohibition against the Municipality of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.
Background of the Case
- The complainants were section leaders of market stall lessees in the public market of San Jose, which the Mayor, Jose T. Villarosa, intended to demolish to build a new commercial complex.
- On June 26, 2012, the complainants filed a Petition for Prohibition with an urgent application for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) and Writ of Preliminary Injunction against the Municipality and Mayor Villarosa.
- The case was assigned to Judge Jacinto, who issued a TRO on June 27, 2012, with a 72-hour validity.
Hearing Events
- Hearings for the extension of the TRO were scheduled for July 2 and 3, 2012.
- During the July 2 hearing, the Mayor's entourage was allowed in the courtroom, while only a small number of the complainants’ supporters were permitted entry.
- The judge allowed the Mayor to leave the courtroom without addressing the