Judiciary marshals will soon be deployed to secure court premises, including halls of justice, courthouses, and official judiciary events.
This as the Supreme Court issued the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 11691, or the Judiciary Marshals Act, to ensure the full implementation of the law and the operationalization of the Office of the Judiciary Marshals.
These marshals will also be tasked to provide protection to witnesses, including secured transportation of accused individuals, or witnesses, when ordered by the court, the SC Public Information Office said Nov. 21.
The Office of the Judiciary Marshals is also empowered to investigate crimes committed against members of the Judiciary, as well as allegations of graft and corruption within the judicial system.
To perform these functions, marshals can issue subpoenas, apply for search warrants, administer oaths, and access public records from other government agencies, all while adhering to the provisions of the Data Privacy Act.
Enacted in 2022, the Judiciary Marshals Act addresses the alarming increase in violent crimes targeting members of the Judiciary, many of which remain unresolved.
This law aims to safeguard judges, court personnel, and court properties while maintaining the integrity of court proceedings.
The operationalization of the Office of the Judiciary Marshals is a key component of the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI) 2022-2027, specifically under the target outcome of efficiency, the SC PIO said.
The SPJI acknowledges that the safety and security of the judiciary are vital to maintaining judicial independence and effective court operations. ||
