MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court (SC) issued the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for Republic Act 11691 or the Judiciary Marshals Act on Thursday.
The law, enacted in 2022, aims to address the increase in violent crimes against members of the judiciary by safeguarding judges, court personnel, and court properties.
“Judiciary Marshals will be deployed to secure court premises, including halls of justice, courthouses, and official judiciary events such as conferences, seminars, and meetings,” the Supreme Court information office said in a statement, citing the IRR.
“They are also tasked with providing protection to witnesses, including the secure transportation of accused individuals or witnesses when ordered by the court,” it added.
Furthermore, under the IRR, the Office of the Judiciary Marshals has the power to investigate crimes committed against members of the Judiciary, as well as allegations of graft and corruption within the judicial system.
This means marshals can issue subpoenas, apply for search warrants, administer oaths, and access public records from other government agencies — while ensuring adherence to the provisions of the Data Privacy Act.
“To improve their operational effectiveness, Judicial Marshals shall undergo continuous training at the Judiciary Marshals Academy, which is a dedicated training unit within the Office,” the SC stated.
“They are also required to undergo periodic physical and neuropsychological assessments to monitor their physical and mental fitness to continue performing their duties,” it added.
Marshal officials and qualified personnel will also be equipped with registered and appropriate firearms.
The Office of the Judiciary Marshals will be led by a chief marshal, assisted by three deputy marshals for Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, respectively.
The office will also be composed of the following line offices: Judicial Security and Operations Division; Investigation and Intelligence Division; Legal Division; and Digital Forensic Service.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Court Administrator is tasked to provide additional supervisory support to the office.
READ: Rules for judiciary marshals underway