REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

Sandiganbayan
Quezon City

FOREWORD

Empowerment, coming from the root word "power", is a widely used

concept. It entails actualization as a means to acquire change. Without
actualization, empowerment remains to be a loose concept. This concept,
sans the action, is nothing.

Our justice system has many phases. As such, the justice system in the
Philippines needs to be more empowered so that it will be more efficient and
effective. Fortunately, the Supreme Court has devised many ways to
strengthen it. One of which is the drafting and implementing the "Judicial
Affidavit Rule" or simply the "JAR". The JAR seeks to decongest the case
dockets and to speed up the trial process. It seeks to liberate our justice
system by simplifying the judicial procedure. Animated by the joint effort of the
magistrates, court personnel and lawyers alike, the delivery of speedy and
efficient justice is no longer a concept but the realization of the much-needed
change in the Philippine justice system.

This book seeks to enlighten our minds through a detailed and

meticulous explanation of the JAR. Judicial Affidavit Rule and the Prerogative
Writs seeks to illumine and to aid the judges, lawyers, and especially laymen.

To my high school batch mate and friend, Atty. Alvin Talag Claridades,
you are the society's means to empowerment. Congratulations!

JUSTICE MARIA THERESA V. MENDOZA-ARCEGA

Associate Justice
Sandiganbayan