ADMINISTRATIVE CIRCULAR NO. 1-99 January 15, 1999
ENHANCING THE DIGNITY OF COURTS AS TEMPLES OF JUSTICE AND PROMOTING RESPECT FOR THEIR OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES
TO: ALL OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE JUDICIARY:
As courts are temples of justice, their dignity and sanctity must, at all times be preserved and enhanced. In inspiring public respect for the justice system, court officials and employees must:
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In general: (a) avoid committing any act which would constitute grounds for disciplinary action under, as the case maybe, the Canons of Judicial Ethics; Code of Judicial Conduct; and Section 46, Chapter 7, Subtitle A, Title I, Book V of the Administrative Code of 1987 (Executive Order No. 292); and (b) faithfully comply with the norms of conduct and perform the duties prescribed in the code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (R.A. No. 6713).
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Zealously guard the public trust character of their offices.
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Strictly observe official time. As punctuality is a virtue, absenteeism and tardiness are impermissible.
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Always be courteous and properly attired.
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Keep the courts and court premises tidy at all times.
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Never use their offices as a residence or for any other purpose than for court or judicial functions.
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Never permit the following to be done within the premises of the court: gambling, drinking of alcoholic beverages or any other form of improper or unbecoming conduct.
This circular shall take effect on 1 February 1999. The Office of the Court Administrator shall ensure its proper observance by all concerned.
City of Manila, 15 January 1999.
(Sgd.) HILARIO G. DAVIDE, JR. Chief Justice