MANILA: The recent approval of House Bill 9045 by the Philippine House of Representatives marks a significant milestone in this endeavor, aiming to bolster access to Shariah courts for Filipino Muslims and streamline court services through digitalization. This legislation empowers the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) to process documents for Muslim citizens in areas where physical Shariah courts are absent.
Yusoph Mando, spokesperson for the NCMF, lauded the bill for its potential to ensure fair and accessible justice for Muslim constituents residing in underserved areas. The transition to digital court services is poised to enhance efficiency and accessibility for individuals seeking legal recourse.
Under the proposed legislation, the NCMF will collaborate with the Supreme Court and the Department of Information and Communications Technology to establish a digital platform for seamless filing of essential documents, such as marriage, birth, and death certificates.
Before the bill can become law, it must secure approval from the Philippine Senate. Mando expressed gratitude to Congress for empowering the NCMF’s Legal Affairs Bureau in safeguarding the rights of Muslim Filipinos nationwide and eagerly anticipates the bill’s progress through the Senate.
The digitalization of Shariah courts represents a significant leap towards fostering inclusivity and accessibility within the Philippine justice system. It underscores the commitment to ensuring that all citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation, have equal access to legal services and protection of their rights.
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