Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo gave emphasis to the transformative role of technology in modernizing legal practice while upholding the profession’s core values.

He cited artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain technology and data analytics as tools that can enhance advocacy and legal service delivery.

Gesmundo reiterated the SC’s commitment to technological advancements through the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 (SPJI), where technology is at the forefront of its vision for a more efficient, transparent, and accessible judiciary.

“We realize that the next frontier can only be reached if we fully embrace the benefits which today’s advancements bring, while ensuring that proper safeguards are placed,” he added.

But he cautioned that technology is merely a tool. “[It] enhances our functions but cannot replace the critical thinking and moral responsibility intrinsic to our profession. Therefore, as we start to integrate these tools, we must ensure that our use and implementation align with our ethical standards and the dictates of fairness and justice,” he said.

This was given emphasis by Gesmundo as he led the SC delegation at the Integrated Bar of the Philippines’ 20th National Convention of Lawyers, held at the Waterfront Hotel, Lahug, Cebu City, from 30 January to 1 February 2025.

The convention, one of the largest gatherings of legal professionals in the country, brought together over 4,000 lawyers nationwide.

Joining the Chief Justice on the opening day were Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen and Associate Justices Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa, Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, Rodil V. Zalameda, Mario V. Lopez, Samuel H. Gaerlan, Ricardo R. Rosario, Jhosep Y. Lopez, Japar B. Dimaampao, Jose Midas P. Marquez and Antonio T. Kho Jr.