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Elizabeth Marcelo - The Philippine Star
January 3, 2026 | 12:00am
Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo
SC PIO
MANILA, Philippines — Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo expressed confidence the country’s courts are gearing toward more “efficient, accessible and responsive” operations this year as the innovation program that his leadership has launched for the judiciary is nearing completion.
Gesmundo cited key reforms launched under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 or SPJI, which he said enables Philippine courts to adapt to technological challenges and address the “evolving needs of the public.”
“Through innovation, technology and institutional strengthening, we aim on reducing delays, enhancing efficiency and bringing justice closer to all, especially the most vulnerable,” Gesmundo said.
“As we approach the completion of the SPJI in 2027, rest assured that the progress achieved under this reform agenda will not only be sustained but also further built upon,” he added.
Among the reforms earlier introduced by the Supreme Court under the SPJI were the electronic filing of pleadings, the use of Filipino sign language in court proceedings, as well as the launch of the revised Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability for all lawyers, the Code of Conduct and Accountability for Court Officials and Personnel and the Code of Judicial Conduct and Accountability for all justices and judges nationwide.
“A new year represents new beginnings and fresh opportunities. It reminds us that change is possible and that with fresh determination and renewed effort, we can make progress,” Gesmundo said in his New Year message posted on the Supreme Court website.
The Chief Justice said that while the foundation for reforms has already been laid, the progress needs to be sustained through collaboration and “continued commitment of our judicial officers and court staff, members of the legal profession, our development partners.”
Gesmundo, the country’s 27th chief justice, is set to retire on Nov. 6 this year upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.
