Supreme Court Associate Justice Ramon Paul L. Hernando called on judges nationwide to remain steadfast and courageous in performing their duties despite political pressure or personal risk.

This was the central message of Justice Hernando’s keynote address during the Philippine Judges Association (PJA) National Convention and Seminar held in Pasay City on 2 October, where he outlined three core principles — Confidence, Compassion, and Courage — as essential to achieving judicial excellence.

Hernando explained that confidence in the judiciary is built when magistrates perform their duties efficiently and responsibly, reinforced by the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI), which includes technology-driven reforms such as the eCourt PH system.

He also emphasized compassion as a guiding principle in ensuring the timely, accessible, and fair delivery of justice to the public.

The call for judicial courage, Hernando said, is especially vital amid the challenges of maintaining judicial independence in a politically charged environment. His address was delivered before hundreds of trial court judges attending the PJA’s annual three-day convention.

Among those present at the event were Acting Chief Justice Marvic Leonen and Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez.

The PJA National Convention, hosted by the association, aims to unite trial court judges under a shared commitment to excellence, integrity, and independence in the country’s judiciary.