Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo led the Supreme Court’s (SC) annual Christmas celebration, themed “Paskong Makabago, Hudikaturang Makatao” at the SC Old Compound on Monday.

The Chief Justice was joined by Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen, and Associate Justices Ramon Paul L. Hernando, Jose Midas P. Marquez and Raul B. Villanueva.

In his keynote message, Gesmundo reflected on the significance of Christmas as a time to pause and reaffirm the values of faith, family, friends, and service amid constant change. He acknowledged that the address carried a special meaning, as it would be his last as chief justice before his mandatory retirement in less than 12 months.

“After serving in the Court since 2017... I cannot help but look back with deep gratitude on the remarkable journey we have walked together,” Gesmundo said.

He commended the court officials and staff for their resilience and unwavering commitment, particularly during the difficult moments faced by the Judiciary in recent years, including the pandemic. “Through every hardship, you stood firm with courage and quiet dignity,” he said. “It is not the challenges that define our story. It is how we rose above them.”

Gesmundo also stressed the significant gains achieved under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027, which is now in its fourth year. He described the SPJI as “a living testament to your willingness to grow, to innovate, and to embrace change,” citing key achievements in modernizing court processes, strengthening systems and improving access to justice.