The Supreme Court of the Philippines has received a landmark study that aims to make the country’s Shari’ah Justice System (SJS) more effective, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Muslim and indigenous communities. The presentation, held on August 20, 2025, is part of the project “Institutional Review and Assessment of the Shari’ah Justice System (IRA-SJS),” which supports the Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027. This development was shared through a post by the Institute of Islamic Studies – University of the Philippines, Diliman (UP IIS).

Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen praised the research team’s output, describing its more than 400 pages of findings as both “substantial and meaningful.” He noted that the report will serve as a vital reference in shaping reforms for the SJS, underscoring the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that the system remains relevant and accessible. Associate Justice Japar B. Dimaampao also attended the event to express support for the initiative.

The research was spearheaded by Assoc. Prof. Macrina A. Morados, JD, SCL, with a team composed of scholars and legal experts from UP IIS, including Ustadh Luqman L. Bin Usman Imam, Atty. Abdulmalik M. Velez, Atty. Abdul Majid P. Marohombsar, Atty. Datu Syed Omar K. Idjiran, and Mr. Al-ahmadgaid Asaad. The group brought together expertise in Shari’ah, constitutional law, organizational development, and data analysis to assess the strengths, gaps, and challenges of the current system.

The project is carried out under the SUBATRA Justice and Society Project and the GOJUST II Programme, both funded by the European Union and implemented through the British Council, UNOPS, and AECID. It not only reviews the present state of Shari’ah courts but also offers evidence-based recommendations that can strengthen institutional mechanisms and improve public trust.

The researchers expressed gratitude to Shari’ah judges, clerks, practitioners, ulama, and members of the academe who participated in consultations, as well as to Dean Julkipli M. Wadi of UP IIS for providing institutional support. The Integrated Bar of the Philippines was likewise recognized for its continued partnership in promoting justice reforms that reflect both cultural sensitivity and constitutional values.