The Supreme Court’s (SC) building on Padre Faura Street in Ermita, Manila is now an “Important Cultural Property” and is protected and preserved for its historical significance to the country.

With its rich history as a pillar of Philippine democracy, a historical marker was unveiled last Friday, June 5, at the SC’s building by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).

Also unveiled was a commemorative plaque that marked the celebration of the SC’s 125th anniversary on June 11.

Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo led the unveiling ceremony. He was joined by SC Associate Justices Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa, Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, Rodil V. Zalameda, Jose Midas P. Marquez, and Raul B. Villanueva.

Also present were Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso; representatives from NHCP led by Commissioners Lisa Guerrero Nakpil, Maria Eloisa P. De Castro, and Francis M. Navarro; and University of the Philippines Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael L. Tee.

Historical markers to sites, institutions, structures, people, or events that have significant historical or cultural value are granted by the NHCP after a thorough evaluation with the help of historians and other experts to ensure that the required standards are met.

Through Act No 136, the SC was organized on June 11, 1901.

The SC’s Office of the Spokesperson said the SC building was originally built between 1928 and 1930 as the main library of the University of the Philippines (UP). The building was designed by Filipino architect Antonio Toledo in the neoclassical tradition.

It said that after UP relocated to Diliman in Quezon City in 1949, the building was repurposed to house the Department of Foreign Affairs until 1991 when the structure underwent renovation and was formally designated as the new seat of the SC.

On behalf of the SC, Associate Justice Raul B. Villanueva highlighted how the historical marker serves as “a constant reminder that the Court is not merely a majestic building, but a continuity of principle that has outlasted regimes, wars, and the destruction of the very buildings where it once sat.”

Villanueva emphasized the vital role of the judiciary, through the SC, in exercising its powers in faithful adherence to the Constitution and in advancing the broader task of nation-building.

SC Spokesperson and lawyer Camille Sue Mae L. Ting said: “Through the years, the Supreme Court has faced both progress and challenge—from war and occupation to periods that tested its independence. Yet, it endured.”

Ting noted how the SC continues to evolve 125 years later, with ongoing reforms under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027 (SPJI) to improve efficiency, accessibility, and innovation in the justice system for every Filipino.

In her message, NHCP Executive Director Carminda R. Arevalo underscored the enduring trust given by the Filipino people to the SC throughout its 125-year history.

Arevalo expressed gratitude to the SC “for continuing to be the Filipino people’s strong and last defense for their quest for justice that is fair and lawful.”

During the ceremony, the Certificate of Transfer and Acceptance of the historical marker was signed by SC Clerk of Court En Banc and lawyer Marife M. Lomibao-Cuevas and NHCP Executive Director Arevalo. The signing was witnessed by Ting and NHCP Deputy Executive Director for Programs and Projects Alvin R. Alcid.

Chief Justice Gesmundo and the associate justices likewise unveiled the SC 125th Anniversary commemorative plaque. The plaque designates the SC New Building as the court’s principal seat from 1991 to the present. It also lists the Chief Justices who have served the court and the incumbent members.

Starting this year, President Marcos had declared the month of June as “Judiciary Month” to highlight the “vital role of the Judiciary in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the effective administration of justice.”