December 7, 2023
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday urged the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC) to streamline and digitalize the country’s jail systems.
Marcos’ speech was delivered at the National Decongestion Summit in Manila by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin while the President was in isolation due to COVID-19.
“I urge the JSCC to pursue the streamlining and digitalization of your frontline and backend services. By embracing technology and innovative practices, we can enhance our efficiency, reduce delays, and ensure swift and fair legal proceedings,” said Marcos.
The JSCC, the inter-agency body composed of representatives from the Supreme Court, the Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Department of Justice, organized the summit.
“As we delve deeper into the various plenary sessions and workshops, I also urge participants to actively share your insights, experiences, and best practices. Let us learn from the successes and best practices of other countries, where innovative solutions have been invented to address challenges in the justice system,” the President said.
According to Marcos, the government must have a justice system that upholds human rights.
“In our pursuit of a Bagong Pilipinas, where communities and government institutions have respect for the law and human rights, it is vital that we work together to come up with measures to decongest our jails and improve the conditions of persons deprived of liberty. Rest assured, this administration remains steadfast in its commitment to support collaborative efforts between the executive and the judiciary,” said Marcos.