The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday expressed its support for the Supreme Court’s initiative to transition toward electronic filing for civil cases in trial courts.
“The Commission recognizes the potential benefits of digitalization, particularly in streamlining court proceedings and reducing the physical and financial burdens associated with traditional filing methods,” the CHR stated.
” Additionally, the shift to electronic filing can democratize access to justice by making legal processes more accessible, especially for individuals and communities in remote or underserved areas,” it continued.
The Supreme Court previously announced that “starting 01 September 2024, trial courts shall only act upon pleadings and other court submissions in civil cases if the filing is accompanied by an electronic transmittal of the same document in PDF format through email.”
Electronic submissions must be completed within 24 hours of the primary manner of service, which includes personal filing, registered mail, or accredited courier.
While digitalization offers significant advantages in filing cases, the CHR emphasizes the need for inclusivity during this transition.
“The right to access justice should not be compromised for those who may face challenges in adapting to electronic filing. We advocate for continuous dialogue and consultation with all stakeholders to ensure that this shift does not inadvertently exclude any sector of society,” the Commission’s statement read.
The CHR also highlighted the importance of safeguarding the privacy rights of the public. “As the judiciary moves toward digital platforms, the protection of personal data and the right to privacy must be paramount,” it said.
The Commission invoked the Data Privacy Act of 2012, which mandates that all personal information controllers, including judicial bodies, ensure the security and confidentiality of personal data collected, stored, and processed.
“This also aligns with Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which protects individuals from arbitrary or unlawful interference with their privacy,” it added.
“We commend the SC for its assurance that robust cybersecurity measures are in place to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and breaches.”
