Padilla bats for digital access to Sharia courts in Phl

Senator Robin Padilla has filed a proposed measure seeking to provide Filipino Muslims nationwide better access to Shari'a courts through the digital processing of routine documents.

Padilla filed Senate Bill 2462, which sought to amend some provisions of Republic Act 9997 or the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Act of 2009.

The senator said the proposed measure also" introduces provisions for the creation of a digital platform" that allows the paperless filing of routine documents to and from Shari'a courts, as well as the collection of statistical data for Muslim Filipinos at the national, regional, provincial, city, and municipal levels.

"This will ensure that all citizens of this country are able to access an effective, efficient, and non-discriminatory legal system, the passage of this measure is earnestly sought," he added.

Padilla lamented that many Filipino Muslims have experienced difficulties in availing of the services from the Sharia court due to the lack of funds and knowledge when submitting documents.

He also pointed out that only a few Sharia courts were established in the country while there's no courtroom outside Mindanao.

"Needless to say, these circumstances undermine our country's commitment to promoting fair and equal treatment to all of its citizens under the law," Padilla said.

SB 2462 tasked the NCMF and Department of Information and Communications Technology to closely work with the Supreme Court in establishing a digital platform for the "paperless filing" of documents including marriage, birth, and death certificates, along with the collection of appropriate fees.

The NCMF will also help in the submission of legal documents related to cases before the Sharia court. It may also enter into public-private partnership projects for Muslim Filipinos.

Likewise, the NCMF's Bureau of Legal Affairs must ensure equitable access for Muslim Filipinos in Sharia courts, and establish a mechanism for the submission of legal documents into Sharia courts.