Title
Establishment of Judiciary Development Fund
Law
Presidential Decree No. 1949
Decision Date
Jul 18, 1984
Presidential Decree No. 1949 establishes the Judiciary Development Fund (JDF) to ensure the independence of the Judiciary in the Philippines by providing allowances and funding for office equipment, with the Chief Justice having sole authority over its administration and allocation.

Allocation and Utilization of the Fund

  • At least 80% of the Fund shall be used for cost of living allowances for Judiciary members and personnel.
  • Not more than 20% shall be spent on office equipment and facilities for courts at the locations where legal fees are collected.
  • Allowances shall be distributed proportionally based on basic salaries.
  • Members and personnel earning less than P1,000 per month may receive higher allowances.

Administration and Disbursement Authority

  • The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court administers and allocates the Fund.
  • Sole and exclusive power to approve and authorize Fund disbursements and expenditures.
  • Activity must comply with guidelines in the Decree and implementing rules.

Fund Management and Audit

  • Funds deposited in authorized government or government-controlled banks by the Chief Justice or authorized representative.
  • Income or interest earned from the Fund is part of the Fund.
  • Commission on Audit conducts quarterly audits via Auditor of the Supreme Court or representative.
  • Audit reports submitted to the Chairman of the Commission on Audit and Chief Justice, copies furnished to appellate and executive judges.

Local Government Units’ Responsibilities and Protection of Existing Benefits

  • Local governments remain responsible for providing office spaces, equipment, and facilities for courts within their jurisdictions.
  • No reduction of existing compensation, allowances, benefits, or privileges as of the Decree’s effectivity date.

Rulemaking and Legal Adjustments

  • The Supreme Court has authority to promulgate implementing rules and regulations.
  • Any laws, decrees, orders, rules, regulations or parts inconsistent with this Decree are modified, amended, or repealed accordingly.

Effectivity

  • The Decree takes effect upon the promulgation of the revised schedule of legal fees under Rule 141 of the Rules of Court.

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