SC approves new code of conduct for court officials

MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court (SC) has approved the 2025 Code of Conduct and Accountability for Court Officials and Personnel, which aims to address ethical challenges and reinforces the prohibition on accepting gifts, tips or other gratuities.

According to the SC Office of the Spokesperson, the new code also includes new provisions on the responsible use of social media and artificial intelligence and reinforces the prohibition against accepting gifts, tips, or other gratuities for assisting court users.

The new code updates the previous 2004 Code of Conduct to address “contemporary ethical challenges” facing the judiciary.

The code also requires the adoption of gender-fair, child-friendly and culturally sensitive language across judicial communications.

The new code was drafted by the sub-committee chaired by Associate Justice Maria Filomena Singh, incorporating feedback from nationwide consultations held during the 2024 National Ethics Caravan.

The consultation process involved justices, judges, court officials, members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines and various civil society groups across major cities.

The SC said the new code will take effect 15 calendar days after its publication in the Official Gazette or two newspapers of general circulation, and its posting on the SC website.