Supreme Court Associate Justice Ramon Paul L. Hernando has urged judges across the country to show courage and independence in performing their duties despite political pressure or personal risk.

Speaking as keynote speaker at the Philippine Judges Association (PJA) National Convention and Seminar in Pasay City on 2 October, Hernando outlined what he called the “Three C’s” essential for judicial excellence: confidence, compassion, and courage.

He said confidence in the judiciary is built when magistrates perform their duties efficiently and responsibly, reinforced by reforms under the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations, which includes technology upgrades such as the eCourt PH system.

Hernando also underscored the importance of compassion in ensuring that judicial reforms result in timely, accessible, and fair justice for the public.

The justice made his remarks before hundreds of trial court judges attending the PJA’s annual three-day convention, which was also attended by Acting Chief Justice Marvic Leonen and Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez.

The PJA said the event aimed to strengthen unity among trial court judges and promote a shared commitment to excellence, integrity, and independence in the judiciary.