The Supreme Court (SC) has approved new guidelines for the suspension of work and court operations in lower courts, ensuring a uniform and consistent approach across all trial courts. These guidelines provide clear procedures for handling various situations, from natural calamities like typhoons and earthquakes to transport strikes and sudden electricity interruptions.
In the event of typhoons or heavy rainfall, Regional Court Managers (ORCMs) can suspend work and court operations for up to three consecutive days, based on weather forecasts and local advisories. For sudden calamities, such as earthquakes or landslides, Executive Judges can declare a one-day suspension, with the option to extend it by up to two more days if necessary. Any suspension beyond three days requires clearance from the Court Administrator.
During transport strikes and large rallies, Executive Judges must notify the ORCM within a day and can suspend operations for up to three consecutive days. For sudden, unannounced strikes or rallies, a one-day suspension is allowed, with the possibility of extending it for up to two more days. Similarly, for electricity interruptions, if power is expected to be out for at least two hours, the Executive Judge can suspend work, with the option to extend it for up to two more days.
The guidelines also address permanent local non-working holidays, which are announced at least one week in advance by the ORCM. Temporary local holidays or those declared by the President are to be informed to the ORCM within a day of the declaration. Any suspension must be reviewed by the Court Administrator, who can reverse it if needed. Additionally, a skeleton workforce must remain on duty to handle urgent matters and keep official hotlines operational.
The SC emphasizes the importance of judicious work suspensions, warning that abuse of authority may lead to administrative action. Prompt notification to parties, law enforcement agencies, and the public is also required, and the SC Communications Office must be informed immediately after declaring a suspension.
