SC approves internet allowance for judges, clerks

MANILA, Philippines — Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo has approved the release of communications allowance to judges and clerks of court nationwide as trial courts shifted to online hearings due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a circular, Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez said lower court judges and their respective clerks would receive a monthly allowance of P5,000 beginning next month to pay for internet services.

The Supreme Court authorized courts to conduct hearings through videoconference in August last year after Metro Manila and other areas were placed on lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus.

“[They] shall ensure that the internet service procured has sufficient bandwidth to enable them to conduct videoconferencing hearings and electronically receive and transmit court documents,” he added.

—Marlon Ramos

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