CJ extols role of court stenographers in administration of justice
CHIEF Justice Alexander Gesmundo emphasized the crucial role of court stenographers in the country’s justice system during the 9th National Convention of the Court Stenographers Association of the Philippines (COSTRAPHIL) on April 26 in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte.
In his keynote speech, Gesmundo addressed over 1,800 court stenographers and highlighted their vital responsibility beyond recording court proceedings.
He said they help ensure truth and reason prevail in courts, which, in turn, will help win back people’s faith in the legal system.
Gesmundo also acknowledged the challenges faced by court stenographers and shared the Supreme Court’s blueprint for judicial reform under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 (SPJI), targeting efficiency, innovation, and access.
Gesmundo mentioned that the SPJI would leverage artificial intelligence (AI) for stenographic work, which would facilitate the speedy disposition of cases.
He encouraged court stenographers to embrace technology and invest in the skills and resources needed for the shift that the SPJI envisioned.
He assured the court stenographers that the SPJI would not leave anyone behind and addressed concerns of downsizing and layoffs that may result from digitization and automation.
The Chief Justice reminded them that innovations are meant not to supplant but to support them.
Under Rule 136, Section 17 of the Rules of Court, stenographers are mandated to deliver all notes taken during a court session to the clerk of court immediately, to be attached to the records of the case.
As of present, there are over 7,000 court stenographers in the Philippines.
