SC to host Asean council of chief justices

MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court (SC) is set to host the 11th meeting of the Council of Southeast Asian Nations Chief Justices (CACJ) on Nov. 18 to 21 in Mactan, Cebu.

The event aims to bring together chief justices and senior judiciary officials from ASEAN member states “to discuss judicial cooperation and regional initiatives in Southeast Asia,” according to the SC Public Information Office.

Among the matters to be discussed are cross-border disputes involving children; facilitating service of civil processes within ASEAN; case management and court technology; conduct of video conference hearings; and judicial training and education.

A launching of the CACJ Philippines Publications will be held on Nov. 19, which is the official release of publications of the CACJ working groups led by the Philippines, showcasing resources on judicial collaboration and legal development across the ASEAN.

On Nov. 20, the opening session will feature a speech by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo of the Philippines, as well as of the ASEAN deputy secretary general, and the chief justices and heads of delegation of the other ASEAN member states.

This will be followed by a gala dinner which will feature individual country presentations that celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of the different member states, which will be held to honor the ASEAN chief justices and other dignitaries in attendance.

According to the CACJ’s website, the council offers a “regular forum” for the chief justices to discuss and exchange views on common issues facing their judiciaries.