SC fun run lures big field

THE Supreme Court’s fun run for judicial innovation yesterday drew more than 1,500 participants, including justices and court officials.

Among the justices who participated in the fun run dubbed the “SPJI in Motion: Strategic Run for Judicial Innovations 2023” were Associated Justices Mario Lopez, Jhosep Lopez, and Jose Midas Marquez.

Also in attendance were Associate Justices Ricardo Rosario and Antonio Kho Jr. as well as SC officials and employees, trial court judges and members of various court organizations.

Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo said the event is a reminder that the Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 is “now in motion.”

He also urged continued support for all of the High Court’s reform initiatives under the SPJI, which serves as the roadmap for judicial reforms.

“As this occasion reminds us, the SPJI is now in motion. And it is up to us to ensure its continued progress towards our vision of a more effective and responsive judiciary, serving not only the people but also the dedicated individuals within it,” Gesmundo told the participants who competed in the 5K, 3K and 1K categories.

“You have fought the good fight; you have run the race; now I hope you keep the faith: that we can all make it to the finish line of these reforms, where our dream of a better judiciary awaits,” Gesmundo added.

He added that much like the fun run, the reforms envisioned under the SPJI are also going to test the judiciary’s determination, endurance, and stamina.

“But seeing you all here today, running for a cause early this cold Sunday morning, I am confident that we as one Supreme Court will make it to the finish line,” he added.