Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo led the inauguration of the newly-rehabilitated San Carlos City Hall of Justice (HOJ) May 23, and stressed that this is “a true testament to the strength and cooperation” between and among the local government, the Department of Justice, and the Supreme Court.
Gesmundo said all, including the frontliners, must unite to constantly improve the delivery of quality service to the people.
“I hope this structure serves as a constant reminder to us that challenges are inevitable when we devote ourselves to something worthwhile; ultimately, these challenges become unsurmountable when we remember the purpose of why we chose to pursue the causes in the first place,” he said in his message.
The Chief Justice reminded the workers of their responsibility to deliver timely, fair, and transparent justice to everyone; and assured them that the Supreme Court would always strive to provide enough space, good conditions, and decent court facilities.
The Hall of Justice houses the Public Attorney’s Office, the Office of the City Prosecutor, regional trial courts, municipal trial courts in cities, the Parole and Probation Office, and the Office of the Clerk of Court, the city said in a press release.
RTC Branch 58 presiding judge Amy Avellano, meanwhile, acknowledged those who made the rehabilitation possible and the unconditional support of the local government, which temporarily housed them at the Regional Evacuation Center to continue serving the public during the rehabilitation of the HOJ.
San Carlos City Vice Mayor Christopher Carmona said the local government allocated P1.4 million for the rehabilitation of the HOJ in 2015. A modernized Hall of Justice now stands as a testament to the commitment to the rule of law where judges, lawyers, and court personnel reinforce confidence in the justice system, he added.
“With the inauguration of this newly-renovated hall of justice, let us also celebrate the peace and order that defines San Carlos City,” Carmona said.
He added that the building serves as a reminder of the immense responsibility to uphold justice and ensure accessibility; and inspires everyone to strive for a society where the rule of law prevails and safeguards the rights of every individual.
Acting presiding judge Reginald Fuentebella of RTC Branch 59 assured that the Hall of Justice employees would try to live up and keep Gesmundo’s reminder, and deliver the type of service and fair administration of justice, no matter the status.
Rev. Msgr. Erwin Magnanao led the blessing of the HOJ, with Gesmundo, Associate Justice Jose Midas Marquez, Court Administrator Raul Villanueva, Deputy Court Administrator for Visayas Jenny Lind Aldecoa-Delorino, and Avellano.
Also in attendance were SC spokesperson, Atty. Camille Sue Mae Ting, Office of the Halls of Justice Chief Atty. Raquel Ladrillano, Chief Technology Officer Atty. Jed Sherwin Uy, RTC 152 acting presiding judge Kathrine Go, local government representatives, City Administrator Atty. Estefanio Libutan Jr., and CENRO I Engr. Loreto Sanchez, among others. ||
