Retired Supreme Court justice commends education arm for training judges, court personnel

Retired Supreme Court (SC) Associate Justice Edgardo L. Delos Santos commended the SC's education arm in strengthening the judiciary through the training judges and court personnel for the past three decades. 

At the 30th anniversary of the  Philippine Judicial Academy (PHILJA), Delos Satos said, “Through changing times and evolving demands on the justice system, the Academy has remained steadfast in its commitment to strengthening the Judiciary as a pillar of democratic governance and the rule of law.”

Themed “30 Years Strong: PHILJA making waves through time,” the event was led by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo and SC Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen, alongside retired SC Associate Justice and PHILJA Chancellor Rosmari D. Carandang .The event was held at Judicial Academy Philippines in Tagaytay City, Cavite. on March 12, 2026.

Former PHILJA Vice Chancellor and retired SC Associate Justice Mariano C. del Castillo, retired SC Associate Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., and PHILJA professors were also present.

A key highlight was the presentation of Loyalty Awards which recognized long-serving staff  and honored two outstanding individuals with the PHILJA Model Employee Awards.

In her closing remarks, PHILJA Chancellor Carandang commended the enduring purpose and dedication of the PHILJA community, describing the Academy as a "legacy of service" where judicial ideals become practice and “where the Judiciary’s future is shaped through education inspired by commitment and courage.”

She also commended the institution for sustaining PHILJA’s programs and training activities even during challenging periods.

Through programs such as the Pre-Judicature Program and the Judicial Career Enhancement Program, the Academy continues to ensure that the Philippine Judiciary upholds the highest standards of excellence.

PHILJA was founded on March 12, 1996 under then Chief Justice Andres R. Narvasa. It was institutionalized on February 26, 1998, as the educational arm of the Philippine Judiciary, establishing the Academy as a separate component unit of the SC. 

PHILJA has advanced judicial education in the country through offerings such as the Pre-Judicature Program, Orientation Seminar-Workshop for Newly Appointed Judges, and Judicial Career Enhancement Program.