Manila Hall of Justice eyed for completion by June 2022

THE SUPREME Court (SC) targets the completion of the P2.8-billion Manila Hall of Justice by June 2022. The project, with an area of over 10,818 square meters, consists of three interconnected buildings, including the Old GSIS building, a new one, and another for parking. It will house 120 courtrooms, three special court rooms, the Philippine Mediation Center, and archives, among other facilities. Currently, Manila courts are spread out in three locations. Associate Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, chair of the Halls of Justice Coordinating Committee for the City of Manila, said the funds for the project will be “coming from the judiciary’s own savings.” Court Administrator Jose Midas P. Marquez said the budget reached P2.8 billion because the buildings are “environment friendly and green-certified.” — Vann Marlo M. Villegas