Chief Justice Gesmundo Highlights the Judiciary’s Role Towards National Prosperity
October 26, 2023
Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo delivers his opening statement during the Plenary 3 (Public Management Forum): Good Governance and the Future of Shared Prosperity at the “49th Philippine Business Conference and Expo” of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry on October 25, 2023 at the Fiesta Ballroom, Manila Hotel. (Courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office)
“We are confident that we can foster a judiciary that is eager and empowered to do its part in building the future we all aspire for: where individuals and industries alike can thrive in a nation where justice and prosperity are both for all.”
Thus, enthused Chief Justice Gesmundo as he underscored the Judiciary’s vital role in pursuing a future of shared prosperity for the country in his message as a plenary panelist during the 49th Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) on October 25, 2023 at the Fiesta Ballroom, Manila Hotel.
Recognizing that the Judiciary is equally responsible for the development of the country along with the two other branches of government, Chief Justice Gesmundo stated that the judicial branch contributes to the country’s growth “by fairly and consistently applying and interpreting laws and regulations; by strengthening transparency, guaranteeing accountability, and ensuring good governance among public institutions; and by upholding the rule of law.”
For the Judiciary to fulfill this role, it must be able to function as efficiently and effectively as possible through the reforms under the Court’s blueprint for action, the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 (SPJI), and the members of the Judiciary’s faithful adherence to their mandate and functions.
“Indeed, without justice—without the work by the Judiciary—there can be no prosperity,” he stressed.
Joining Chief Justice Gesmundo as panelists for Plenary 3 (Public Management Forum): Good Governance and the Future of Shared Prosperity were Commissioner Javey Paul D. Francisco of the Securities and Exchange Commission and Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui of the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
During the panel discussion, the chief magistrate was asked about the Judiciary’s initiatives regarding the ease of doing business in the Philippines. He cited the Rules on Expedited Procedures in First Level Courts (A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC), which recalibrates, reconciles, and harmonizes the coverage of the Revised Rule on Summary Procedure and Rule on Small Claims Cases following the enactment of Republic Act No. 11576, which expanded the jurisdictional amount cognizable by the first level courts to ₱2,000,000.00 for civil actions involving monetary claims.
On the other hand, the threshold amount of small claims cases was increased to ₱1,000,000.00, and there is no longer a distinction as to whether the claim is filed before the first level courts within or outside Metro Manila.
“The overarching goal is to create a legal environment that is always supportive of the businesses but also ensures that justice is served expeditiously and fairly,” emphasized Chief Justice Gesmundo.
Also raised during the plenary is the Judiciary’s role in combating corruption. The Chief Justice mentioned the Judicial Integrity Board, established to further strengthen integrity and prevent corruption in the Judiciary. He also stressed the importance of recent SC decisions imposing disciplinary actions against erring judges and employees.
Themed “Vision 2050: The Philippines A First-World Economy,” the two-day PBC&E gathered speakers and panelists which include key government officials, diplomats, experts from the academe, and business and industry leaders. (Courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office)
Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo answers questions during the Plenary 3 (Public Management Forum): Good Governance and the Future of Shared Prosperity at the “49th Philippine Business Conference and Expo” of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) on October 25, 2023 at the Fiesta Ballroom, Manila Hotel. Joining him were Commissioner Javey Paul D. Francisco of the Securities and Exchange Commission (second from left) and Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (center). The panel was moderated by PCCI Corporate Secretary Atty. Pablo M. Gancayco and Atty. Dot R. Balasbas-Gancayco of Gancayco Balasbas & Associates Law Offices. (Courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office)
Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo (center) is presented a plaque of appreciation as plenary speaker along with Commissioner Javey Paul D. Francisco of the Securities and Exchange Commission (second from left) and Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (third from left) during the Plenary 3 (Public Management Forum): Good Governance and the Future of Shared Prosperity at the “49th Philippine Business Conference and Expo” (PBC&E) of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) on October 25, 2023 at the Fiesta Ballroom, Manila Hotel. Also in photo are (from left) 49th PBC&E Chairman Arch. Felino A. Palafox, Jr., PCCI President Mr. George T. Barcelon, Atty. Dot R. Balasbas-Gancayco, and Atty. Pablo M. Gancayco of Gancayco Balasbas & Associates Law Offices. (Courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office)
