[ SC ADMINISTRATIVE CIRCULAR NO. 1-99, January 15, 1999 ]

[ SC ADMINISTRATIVE CIRCULAR NO. 1-99, January 15, 1999 ]

[ SC ADMINISTRATIVE CIRCULAR NO. 1-99, January 15, 1999 ]

ENHANCING THE DIGNITY OF COURTS AS TEMPLES OF JUSTICE AND PROMOTING RESPECT FOR THEIR OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES

TO : ALL OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE JUDICIARY

As courts are temples of justice, their dignity and sanctity must, at all times, be preserved and enhanced. In inspiring public respect for the justice system, court officials and employees must:

In general: (a) avoid committing any act which would constitute grounds for disciplinary action under, as the case may be, the Canons of Judicial Ethics; Code of Judicial Conduct; and Section 46, Chapter 7, Subtitle A, Title I, Book V of the Administrative Code of 1987 (Executive Order No. 292); and (b) faithfully comply with the norms of conduct and perform the duties prescribed in the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (R.A. No. 6713).

Zealously guard the public trust character of their offices.

Strictly observe official time. As punctuality is a virtue, absenteeism and tardiness are impermissible.

Always be courteous and properly attired.

Keep the courts and court premises tidy at all times.

Never use their offices as a residence or for any other purpose than for court or judicial functions.

Never permit the following to be done within the premises of the court: gambling, drinking of alcoholic beverages or any other form of improper or unbecoming conduct.

This Circular shall take effect on 1 February 1999. The Office of the Court Administrator shall ensure its proper observance by all concerned.

City of Manila, 15 January 1999.

(Sgd.) HILARIO G. DAVIDE, JR.

Chief Justice