Judiciary Brings Its Legacy Closer to Filipinos Through Public Transit and Commemorative Merchandise
By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Supreme Court (SC) has unveiled a special edition commemorative Beep Card and inaugurated its first-ever gift shop as part of activities marking its 125th anniversary, bringing the institution’s history and legacy closer to the Filipino public.
During a ceremony held at the SC Main Building in Manila, Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo and members of the High Court formally received the anniversary-themed Beep Cards developed in partnership with AF Payments Inc. (AFPI), operator of the country’s widely used electronic fare payment system.
The commemorative cards feature the digital artwork “SC Padre Faura Community,” created by Rancho Arcilla of the SC Office of the Spokesperson. The design showcases the Supreme Court complex as seen from the railway system and symbolizes the institution’s enduring role in safeguarding democracy, justice, and the rule of law.
Two versions of the commemorative card were produced in honor of the Court’s 125 years of service to the Filipino people.
Supreme Court Spokesperson Atty. Camille Sue Mae Ting described the initiative as a unique way of transforming an everyday item into a meaningful symbol of the Judiciary’s rich history.
“Through these commemorative Beep Cards, we are turning a familiar item into a small piece of history that celebrates the Supreme Court’s 125 years of service to the nation,” Ting said.
The cards will be available to the public beginning this month at Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) stations nationwide.
Bringing the Judiciary Closer to the Public
SC Deputy Clerk of Court and Chief Administrative Officer Atty. Maria Carina Matammu-Cunanan said the project reflects the Court’s commitment to modernization and public engagement under its Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027.
She noted that integrating the Court’s legacy into a widely used mode of transportation serves as a daily reminder of the Judiciary’s role in promoting fairness, integrity, and justice.
“By integrating the Court’s legacy into a widely used mode of transport, we extend a subtle yet powerful reminder of the rule of law into the public sphere,” Matammu-Cunanan said.
AFPI officials likewise welcomed the partnership, describing the Supreme Court complex as a symbol of accessible and inclusive justice that has played a vital role in nation-building.
First-Ever Supreme Court Gift Shop Opens
The ceremony also marked another milestone for the Judiciary with the opening of the Supreme Court’s first-ever gift shop.
Located at the lobby of the SC Main Building, the SC Gift Shop offers a curated collection of souvenirs, stationery, memorabilia, and commemorative items that showcase the identity, heritage, and history of the Philippine Judiciary.
Designed by Architect Prince William T. Wico of the Office of the Spokesperson, the shop aims to give visitors, court employees, and supporters of the Judiciary an opportunity to bring home keepsakes commemorating the institution’s historic anniversary.
According to Ting, the initiative is another way of strengthening the Court’s connection with the public.
“The Supreme Court is not only a legal institution—it is also part of our nation’s history and of the daily lives of the people it serves,” she said.
The SC Gift Shop officially opens to the public on June 5, 2026, and will operate from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The twin initiatives form part of the Supreme Court’s year-long celebration of its 125th anniversary, highlighting the institution’s efforts to preserve its legacy while embracing innovation and greater public engagement.
ia/xf
