OCA CIRCULAR NO. 9-2003, January 23, 2003

WHEREAS, hymns manifest the ideals of a country or an
institution, and are among the most solemn of the various forms of expressions
of love for it. They are thus effective means of promoting or strengthening
unity and solidarity among the citizens of a country or the stakeholders of any
institution, and of developing their principled pride as such.

WHEREAS, the Supreme Court Hymn and the Judiciary Hymn put
in words and in music what the Supreme Court and the Judiciary represent, as
well as the sacramental role they play in our democratic society in upholding
the rule of law and dispensing justice. The singing of these hymns by the
Justices, judges and other court officials and employees is their act of solemn
dedication to the ideals and goals of these institutions, their expression of
gratitude for the rare privilege of public service through these institutions,
and their prayer for strengthening the bond of unity and solidarity among them
as public servants.

WHEREAS, to attain the said noble objective, Administrative
Circular No. 53-2002 was issued on November 4,2002 by the Honorable Chief
Justice.

WHEREAS, there Is a need to effectively implement the said
circular in order to ensure compliance thereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, the following rules are hereby prescribed
for observance by all concerned:

1. During the flag-raising ceremony every Monday morning or more specifically,
   immediately after the pledge of allegiance (panunumpa sa watawat), the Judiciary
   Hymn must be sung;

2. Likewise, at any and all programs, seminars, workshops, conventions,
   gathering, training and all other events sponsored by all courts below the
   Supreme Court, the Judiciary Hymn must be sung; The hymn must be printed on a
   piece of paper or must be embodied in the printed program for the occasion and
   the same be distributed to all participants; and

3. The concerned officials or employees must dutifully memorize and
   wholeheartedly sing the said hymn.

Officials of the above mentioned courts shall ensure the active
and full participation of the audience in the singing of the Judiciary Hymn
during such ceremony or program.

For strict compliance.

22 January 2003.