SC Justices Extend Holiday Message and Reinforce Commitment to Judicial Excellence during Visit to Makati City Courts
Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo delivers the Supreme Court’s Christmas message to the Makati City courts employees. With the Chief Justice are Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen and Associate Justices Ramon Paul L. Hernando, Rodil V. Zalameda, and Jose Midas P. Marquez, and Court Administrator Raul B. Villanueva. (Courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office)
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, visited the Makati City courts on Monday, December 18, 2023, to extend the Court’s holiday message to all court officials and employees, as well as to reaffirm the Court’s commitment to protect and support every Judiciary employee and official.
Together with the Chief Justice were Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen, Associate Justice Ramon Paul L. Hernando, Associate Justice Rodil V. Zalameda, and Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez. Court Administrator Raul B. Villanueva was also present.
Speaking after the flag raising ceremony at the Makati City courts, Chief Justice Gesmundo reiterated his earlier message that everyone in the Judiciary should contemplate on their higher calling and fulfill their mission “as stewards of justice and guardians of the rule of law” amid the festivities this Christmas season. “This gathering is not just a testament to the joyous spirit of Christmas but also a reflection of our exuberant commitment to the noble pursuit of justice through innovation.”
The Chief Justice encouraged everyone to reflect and continue working together “towards a just and innovative future.” He mentioned about the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 (SPJI) and stated that through the use of technology and innovation, we can transform our judicial system “to ensure that justice is not just a concept, but a tangible reality for our people.”
The flag raising ceremony was preceded by a brief dialogue between Chief Justice Gesmundo and the judges of the Makati City courts, during which the chief magistrate reassured them of this previous statement that they have the support and protection of the Supreme Court. He, however, cautioned them that the Court will impose the appropriate sanctions for any shortcomings or misbehavior, or any violation they commit with respect to their Constitutional mandate.
After the flag raising ceremony, the SC Justices were given a tour of the Makati City courts. Afterwards, they were treated to a breakfast tendered by the officers and members of the Makati Chapter of the Philippine Association of Court Employees (PACE), which is the umbrella association of first- and second-level court employees in the Judiciary. (Courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office)
Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, speaking before the judges of the Makati City courts, assures them of the Supreme Court’s support and protection. With the Chief Justice are Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez and Court Administrator Raul B. Villanueva. (Courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office)