Supreme Court Upholds Suspension and Benefit Withholding for Retired Justice in Murder Case
The Supreme Court of the Philippines has firmly rejected a motion for reconsideration filed by retired Court of Appeals Associate Justice Isaias Dicdican, who sought to lift his preventive suspension from the practice of law and restore his pension and retirement benefits. This decision comes as Dicdican faces serious allegations of involvement in the murder of lawyer Joey Luis Wee.
Court Cites Ongoing Proceedings as Basis for Denial
In a resolution announced on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the High Court's Public Information Office stated that there was no compelling reason to reverse its earlier order. The court emphasized that the preventive measures—including the suspension and withholding of benefits—are not punitive but are designed to safeguard the integrity of the ongoing criminal and administrative proceedings against Dicdican.
The Supreme Court charged Dicdican with gross misconduct in 2025, following allegations that he masterminded the killing of Wee. The lawyer was shot and killed on November 23, 2020, at the ground floor of the building housing his law office in Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City.
Preventive Measures Aimed at Preventing Interference
The court highlighted that preventive suspension is necessary under the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability to prevent potential obstruction of justice. Given Dicdican's former position as a CA justice in Cebu and his continued practice of law, the Supreme Court expressed concerns that he might influence the investigation, tamper with evidence, or intimidate witnesses.
This step ensures that the legal process remains unimpeded while the case is being resolved, the court noted in its ruling.
Benefits Withheld Due to Non-Compliance and Uncertain Whereabouts
In addition to upholding the suspension, the Supreme Court ruled that Dicdican's pension and retirement benefits will remain withheld. This decision is based on his failure to comply with the court's directive to personally submit required documents, including a pensioner's survey form, as mandated by Office of the Court Administrator Circular 10-2017.
The circular requires retired judges to submit proof of life and pension entitlement every January and July to ensure proper benefit disbursement. The court insisted on personal submission in Dicdican's case because his whereabouts have been uncertain for the past two years, raising further questions about his compliance and accountability.
Background: Murder Case and Arrest Warrant
To recall, a Cebu court has formally included Dicdican as a co-accused in the murder case. In an order dated May 19, 2025, Regional Trial Court Branch 14 Judge Merlo Bagano granted the prosecution's motion, naming Dicdican as an alleged mastermind behind the ambush-slay of Wee.
Retired colonel Edwin Layese previously claimed in an extrajudicial confession that Dicdican orchestrated the killing, while Layese acted as a go-between with the hired gunmen. Judge Bagano signed a warrant for Dicdican's arrest on May 26, 2025, and he remains at large as of the latest updates.
The Supreme Court's latest resolution underscores its commitment to upholding judicial integrity and ensuring that legal proceedings are not compromised by those in positions of influence. As the case continues to unfold, the denial of Dicdican's motion marks a significant step in the pursuit of justice for the victim and accountability within the legal profession.
