Use of Black Robes by Trial Judges
On June 9, 1989, the Supreme Court of the Philippines issued Administrative Circular No. 25-89, mandating that all presiding judges in various trial courts wear black robes during court sessions starting August 1, 1989. This directive aims to enhance public awareness of the seriousness of judicial proceedings. The black robes are to be of a simple design without embellishments, and each judge will receive one robe from the Supreme Court. This initiative underscores the formal nature of the judiciary and its proceedings.
June 9, 1989
SUPREME COURT ADMINISTRATIVE CIRCULAR NO. 25-89
| TO | : | To All Judges of the Regional Trial Courts, Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts in Cities, Municipal Trial Courts, Municipal Circuit Trial Courts and Shari'a Courts |
| SUBJECT | : | Use of Black Robes by Trial Judges |
Pursuant to Section 5 and 6, Article 8 of the Constitution and in order to heighten public consciousness on the solemnity of judicial proceedings, it is hereby directed that beginning Tuesday, August 1, 1989, all Presiding Judges of all Trial Courts shall wear black robes during sessions of their respective Courts.
Black robes or Judges' gowns to be used by the Presiding Judges shall be of simple design, without adornments. Each judge will be furnished one black robe by the Supreme Court.
June 9, 1989.
(SGD.) MARCELO B. FERNAN Chief Justice