SC launches 'Justice on Wheels' in Antipolo City

MANILA, Philippines - Chief Justice Renato Corona launched the “Enhanced Justice on Wheels, Increasing Access to Justice” program as part of the Supreme Court’s 110th founding anniversary in Antipolo City the other day.

The program aims to bring justice closer to the poor by providing fast resolution of conflicts through conciliation, mediation or adjudication, Corona said.

“Justice on Wheels is considered as an extension of first level courts. It has demonstrated its usefulness in addressing the problems concerning legal services to the poor and the less privileged inmates,” he said.

Among the government officials who graced the event were Antipolo City Mayor Nilo Leyble and Andrea Ynares, who represented Rizal Gov. Jun-Jun Ynares.

From 2008 to May this year, a total of 5,230 inmates were released, thanks to the Justice on Wheels program, Leyble said.

A total of 10,722 inmates received free legal services, while 15,000 others got information on the legal system, Leyble added.           

Corona considers himself a resident of Antipolo as he maintains a small resthouse in the city.

“That’s why I’m very thankful for your warm welcome for our Enhanced Justice on Wheels program,” he said, urging those present to join hands with the government “in helping our poor fellowmen.”

The mobile court is custom-built to efficiently serve its functions. It is divided into two main sections: the front section serves as the courtroom, while the rear section serves as the mediation room.

It is fully air-conditioned and equipped with amenities for the judge, the court personnel, the litigants and their lawyers.

It is also provided with the following personnel complement: a presiding judge, a clerk of court, a prosecutor, a public attorney, a court stenographer, a docket clerk, a process server, a driver, and a security guard.