Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed a proclamation declaring June as 'Judiciary Month' in recognition of the 125th founding anniversary of the Supreme Court. Under Proclamation No. 1265, which amended Proclamation 47 on May 21, President Marcos highlighted the judiciary's vital role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the effective administration of justice.

According to Philippines News Agency, the declaration of the judiciary week also aims to 'strengthen public awareness and appreciation of the Judiciary as a pillar of democratic governance by providing a longer period for the conduct of programs and activities that promote judicial integrity, independence, accountability, and efficiency.' 'Extending the observance to the entire month will give the Judiciary greater flexibility in organizing activities and encourage broader stakeholder participation while ensuring that the celebration remains anchored on the founding anniversary of the Supreme Court,' the Proclamation 1265 read.

President Marcos has directed all agencies and instrumentalities to participate and provide the necessary assistance for the effective implementation of Proclamation 1265. The SC was established on June 11, 1901, through Act No. 136 of the Philippine Commission. Its first Chief Justice was Cayetano Arellano.

In celebration of its 125th anniversary, the SC has rolled out a series of activities throughout the year under the theme 'SC: 125 Years of Tradition and Innovation.' The commemoration began with a special En Banc session on Jan. 14 at the Ayuntamiento de Manila, where the SC once sat until World War II. An exhibit highlighting its history was also displayed at the Ayuntamiento and at the SC Main Lobby.