Judicial Reform Initiative: celebrating a decade of resolve

This year marks the 10^th anniversary of the Judicial Reform Initiative (JRI), a milestone that allows us to reflect on a decade of dedicated effort to strengthen one of the most vital pillars of our democracy: the rule of law. When JRI was established, the justice system faced significant challenges. Case delays were common, public trust was low, and confidence was fragile. FINEX joined as a founding member because we recognized that a healthy economy and credible institutions are interconnected. If we want a Philippines where businesses can grow and people can thrive, we need a justice system that is predictable, impartial, and trustworthy.

Over the past ten years, JRI has consistently provided a productive platform for dialogue and reform. It has united groups who believe that a fair and effective justice system benefits every Filipino. Through these partnerships, JRI has advanced practical reforms centered on transparency, accountability, and modernization. Initiatives such as case decongestion programs, improved judicial appointment processes, and the increasing digitalization of court systems demonstrate the progress achieved.

For FINEX, this work strongly aligns with our mission. Economic activity depends on trust and confidence that contracts will be enforced, disputes will be fairly resolved, and corruption won’t influence outcomes. A weak justice system directly impacts the cost of doing business, investor confidence, and ultimately, the country’s competitiveness. In the words of PHINMA’s Chairman Ramon del Rosario, Jr., “Good governance is not only the right thing to do; it is also good for business. It creates trust, and trust drives investment.” By supporting JRI, we promote a broader vision of national development built on good governance. Judicial reform is not just a legal matter; it is an economic and social necessity.

Judicial reform is complex and requires time; no single institution can accomplish it alone. However, when stakeholders work together, when business leaders voice their opinions, when the judiciary welcomes innovation, and when civil society remains focused on accountability, the path to reform becomes clearer.

Of course, much work remains. Case backlogs continue to strain the system. Delays still burden ordinary Filipinos seeking justice. Corruption and political interference threaten institutional independence. Technology investments must accelerate so courts can keep pace with modern demands. These challenges are real, and they will require patience, persistence, and partnership to overcome. But the last ten years have shown that progress is possible when institutions commit to reform with honesty and resolve.

As JRI enters its second decade, FINEX reaffirms its support for this essential mission. Strengthening the rule of law will increase investor confidence, empower businesses, and create a more stable environment for long-term growth. But beyond economic advantages, a reliable justice system restores something even more vital: faith in institutions meant to protect all Filipinos.

Congratulations to the Judicial Reform Initiative on this meaningful milestone. Ten years of advocacy is an achievement worth celebrating, but it is also a reminder of what more can be done. Look forward to further reforms that strengthen the rule of law because a just society is the foundation of a strong and hopeful nation. After all, as former Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban said, “Economic progress and the rule of law are twins. One cannot thrive without the other.”

The views expressed herein are his own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of his office as well as FINEX.

EJ Qua Hiansen is the chief financial officer of PHINMA Corp. and the president of the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines.