SC: Unauthorized LGU court worker can’t be disciplined, but may face contempt

September 14, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

The Supreme Court ruled that it cannot administratively discipline a local government employee detailed to a lower court without its approval, but said the employee may still face contempt proceedings.

In a decision penned by Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh, the SC Third Division ordered the Executive Judge of the MTCC in Baguio City to initiate contempt proceedings against former Baguio City Government employee Juliet L. Corpuz.

Corpuz was accused of receiving money from couples whose marriages were solemnized at the court but were not registered with the local civil registrar.

The SC said her detail to the MTCC was never approved by the Court as required under Administrative Circular No. 28-2008.

The unauthorized detail was therefore void, leaving the SC without administrative supervision or disciplinary jurisdiction over her.

However, the SC said Corpuz may still be cited for contempt because her conduct undermined the administration of justice and tarnished the image of the Judiciary.

The SC also directed the OCA to remind judges to secure approval before accepting locally funded employees for court detail.#