NCR courts to remain closed until further notice
DESPITE the National Capital Region’s (NCR) shift to general community quarantine with alert level 4 restriction starting September 16, 2021, courts in NCR with the exception of the Supreme Court, will remain physically closed until further notice.
This was contained in Administrative Circular No. 72-2021 signed by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo.
But these courts shall continue to operate online and conduct videoconferencing hearings on pending cases and all other matters, whether urgent or not, as far as practicable, so as not to delay trial of cases and court processes.
Also, the time for filing and service of pleadings and motions during the said period is suspended and shall resume after 7 calendar days counted from the first day of the physical reopening of the relevant court, unless otherwise expressly ordered by the relevant court which shall consider the physical closure of courts and granular lockdowns.
Furthermore, the essential judicial offices shall maintain the necessary skeleton staff to enable them address all urgent matters and concerns.
Also, the high court said there will be “no filing policy”, unless for exceptionally urgent matters and only after having been properly coordinated and cleared with the proper office.
