The Supreme Court (SC) has appointed retired Brig. Gen. Manuel R. Gaerlan as the first Chief Marshal of the newly established Office of the Judiciary Marshals (OJM), taking his oath before Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo on 10 March.

Created under Republic Act No. 11691, the OJM aims to address growing threats to the Judiciary by ensuring the security of judges, court personnel, and properties nationwide.

Gaerlan, with over 30 years of experience in security and law enforcement, will head the office, supported by three Deputy Marshals for Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Gaerlan’s appointment is part of the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027. He brings extensive leadership experience from his service in the Philippine Military Academy, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Presidential Security Group. He has also held executive roles outside of law enforcement, including as president and CEO of Clark Development Corporation.

Gaerlan's distinguished service includes receiving multiple awards, such as the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award and Cavalier Award for Police Operations. His appointment marks a significant milestone in reinforcing the Judiciary’s security and independence.