Ask almost any Filipino litigant what’s wrong with the courts and the answer is usually the same: it takes too long. In his October 22 JBC interview for Chief Justice, Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen answered that concern with specifics.
Digitalization and data. Leonen said he would clear judicial backlogs through digitalization. He discussed using data analytics, and artificial intelligence “with caution,” to categorize cases, improve clearance rates, and map judicial timelines. He also stressed adhering to the Constitution’s mandate on timely resolution of cases.
Working with the other branches. He proposed reviving the Judiciary, Executive, and Legislative Advisory Coordinating Council (JELAC) so the three branches can cooperate on justice system reform, instead of relying only on separate legislative commissions.
A Judicial Integrity Office with teeth. Leonen said the Judicial Integrity Office (JIO) should be more than a passive body. He envisions proactive investigations, with judicial marshals helping look into reports of corruption or “transactional” rulings.
Facing the hard questions. JBC members pressed him on delayed convictions and public perceptions of transactional rulings. Leonen acknowledged the concerns and said the judiciary must be transparent and responsive to earn public trust. He also stressed protecting judicial independence, including against SLAPP suits, and keeping the JBC’s vetting rigorous.
Faster courts and cleaner courts are two sides of the same promise: justice that people can actually rely on.
Full interview (JBC, October 22, 2026)