On March 10, the world observes the International Day of Women Judges, a global recognition of the indispensable role that women play in upholding justice and strengthening the rule of law. This observance is particularly significant for the Philippines, where women judges have been at the forefront of judicial reforms aimed at ensuring fairness, accessibility, and efficiency in the country’s legal system.

Just days before this global commemoration, the Philippine Women Judges Association (PWJA) convened from March 5 to 7 at the historic Manila Hotel. This gathering was not only an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of women in the judiciary but also a platform to assess the progress in implementing the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI).
With Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo’s vision for a technology-driven and people-centered justice system, the PWJA members tackled major judicial reforms, including eCourt PH Version 2.0, the Unified Legal Aid Service, gender-fair language and courtroom etiquette, the revised rules of procedure in Shari’ah courts, and the establishment of the Office of the Judiciary Marshals.

The International Day of Women Judges serves as a reminder that justice systems must reflect the societies they serve. The presence of women in the judiciary not only enhances diversity but also enriches decision-making by incorporating varied perspectives in interpreting and applying the law. In the Philippines, where more than half of the judiciary is composed of women, their leadership in judicial innovation has been instrumental in advancing the rule of law.

Three major takeaways from the PWJA conference highlight the significance of this year’s observance:

First: Technology as a Pillar of Judicial Reform

The rollout of eCourt PH Version 2.0 marks a crucial step in modernizing court processes. By integrating digital systems, automating case management, and enhancing transparency, the judiciary aims to streamline procedures and reduce case backlogs. Women judges, many of whom have championed technology-driven solutions, play a critical role in ensuring that this transition prioritizes efficiency without compromising judicial integrity and accessibility.

Second: Gender Sensitivity in the Courts

The judiciary must be a safe and fair space for all individuals, and the PWJA’s emphasis on gender-fair language and courtroom etiquette reinforces this commitment. Words shape perceptions, and by eliminating biased language, judges foster a culture of inclusivity. Furthermore, revised protocols ensure that gender sensitivity is embedded in courtroom procedures, ultimately strengthening public trust in the justice system.

Third: Expanding Access to Justice

The introduction of the Unified Legal Aid Service and the enhancement of Shari’ah court procedures are significant milestones in making legal assistance more accessible, particularly for marginalized communities. By institutionalizing a streamlined approach to legal aid, courts can provide better support to those in need. Women judges, who often witness firsthand the barriers faced by indigent litigants, are strong advocates for these reforms, ensuring that justice is not a privilege but a fundamental right for all.

Beyond these reforms, the Herstory Gender Awards of Distinction, which will be conferred during the PWJA gathering, recognize trailblazing women in the judiciary who have paved the way for greater gender equality. May these inspire future generations of legal practitioners and further empower women in leadership roles.

On the International Day of Women Judges, we celebrate the resilience, wisdom, and dedication of women in the judiciary. The judiciary must continue championing initiatives that foster a fair, modern, and gender-responsive legal system—one that upholds justice not just in principle, but in practice.