PHThe Philippine Daily Inquirer reports that 463 judicial positions remain vacant, contributing to ongoing case backlogs nationwide. The Supreme Court informed the House of Representatives during an appropriations committee hearing that these vacancies represent 16.7% of authorized judicial positions. Court Administrator Theresa Dolores Gomez-Estoesta explained that courts remain 'unorganized' due to the absence of Notices of Staffing and Classification Actions (NOSCA), which require approval from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). She noted that while the Fiscal Autonomy Act provides a 120-day window for DBM to issue NOSCA, the Supreme Court may need to take alternative measures if this deadline is not met. Committee member Rufus Rodriguez urged the SC to finalize the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Fiscal Autonomy Act to enable the opening of new judge positions, as several courts have existed for up to seven years without being fully staffed.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information regarding judicial vacancies and their impact on the legal system without overtly favoring any political ideology. While it discusses legislative processes and potential reforms, it does not frame the issue in a clearly partisan manner. The tone remains客观 (f)
