The Integrated Bar of the Philippines has urged President Rodrigo Duterte to suspend hearings and all processes in the quasi-judicial and administrative bodies nationwide while the enhanced community quarantine is in effect.
In a letter to President Duterte dated March 16, the IBP said an order from his office suspending the hearings would be most welcome considering that the Supreme Court has already done the same for courts nationwide.
“In view of the current public health emergency and in support of the efforts to contain COVID-19, the IBP respectfully recommends the temporary suspension of hearings and processes in all quasi-judicial and all administrative tribunals all over the Philippines, except for the extremely urgent and critically important cases and matters,” the IBP said.
The lawyers’ organization also asked Duterte to extend the deadline for the submission of pleadings and other case requirements.
The group said it may help if the tribunals remain functional with minimal staff on a rotation or on call basis, and work-at-home arrangements.
“A weekly assessment and adjustment of the suspension and other precautionary measures may be judicious,” the IBP said.