Gesmundo urges stronger justice sector coordination

September 21, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

Outgoing Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo has urged justice sector agencies to strengthen coordination to ensure faster, more accessible and responsive justice.

Speaking at the 5th anniversary of the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC) at The Manila Hotel, Gesmundo cited the expansion of the council’s flagship Justice Zone program to 20 nationwide.

The Justice Zones bring together the Judiciary, DOJ, DILG, law enforcement, prosecution, corrections and other stakeholders to improve case flow, reduce jail congestion and address other justice system concerns.

“As the work of the Council continues, I hope we retain what these years have taught us: that our institutions are strongest when they are secure with their own mandates faithful to their constitutional boundaries, yet open to understanding how their work connects with the work of others,” Gesmundo said.

He said coordination should not undermine the independence of institutions but should ensure that each agency understands its role in the broader justice system.

Gesmundo also cited reforms following the 2023 National Jail Decongestion Summit, including DOJ reforms, proposed Supreme Court rules on detention and release, and strengthened BJMP paralegal and case-monitoring efforts.

“Through this tripartite synchronization, we have reduced the national jail congestion rate by double-digit percentages,” he said.#