Manila, Nov. 7 -- The Supreme Court (SC) said Friday it has approved the uniform guidelines on the suspension of work and court operations in the lower courts.

The guidelines, approved by the SC en Banc on Oct. 28, set clear procedures for suspending work and trial court operations during typhoons and other natural calamities, transport strikes, interruption of utility services, holidays, and similar situations.

"While the Chief Justice retains the authority to suspend work and court operations, the guidelines allow limited delegation to the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA), including the Office of the Regional Court Manager (ORCM) for their respective areas, and Executive Judges for their stations. The guidelines ensure uniform ...