Supreme Court turns to AI, digital platforms to modernize court ops

The Supreme Court (SC) is exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in court operations as part of its broader judicial modernization efforts.

Scriptix is already being used by court stenographers to convert audio recordings into transcripts, with human oversight to ensure accuracy. Cybersecurity protocols have also been strengthened, requiring all personnel to adhere to proper digital practices.

Other digital innovations include the Philippine Judiciary Platform (PJP) and the Barista app. The PJP enables lawyers to check case records and update addresses, while the Barista app helps Bar applicants manage requirements and submit documents online.

Senior Associate Justice (SAJ) Marvic Leonen acknowledged that the Philippines remains in the early stages of digitalization and AI adoption compared to other jurisdictions but emphasized that the high court plans to use these technologies to livestream anti-corruption cases and expand public access to pleadings in the interest of accountability.

He added that the modernization initiatives are informed by study visits to courts abroad, adapting global best practices to the Philippine context. Pilot courts have already been established nationwide, and a system for anonymous complaints against judges and court personnel is available through integrity@judiciary.gov.ph.

Leonen welcomed justices and delegates from South and Southeast Asia during a courtesy call on 21 November 2025, at the SC Session Hall in Manila. The delegation included representatives from India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, the Maldives, Mongolia, Lao PDR, Pakistan, and Thailand.

During the meeting, Leonen highlighted the SC’s ongoing initiatives under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027, which centers on efficiency, innovation, and access to justice. He also shared that a new code of conduct for justices and judges has been approved following the adoption of the 2025 Code of Judicial Conduct and Accountability on 11 November.