The Supreme Court (SC) En Banc has approved a Governance Framework on the Use of Human-Centered Augmented Intelligence in the Judiciary, marking a major step toward modernizing court operations and improving the delivery of justice.

In a Resolution dated February 18, 2026 (A.M. No. 25-11-28-SC), the SC set guidelines for the responsible use of AI based on three core principles: fairness, accountability, and transparency. These aim to ensure ethical use of technology and strengthen public trust in the independence and impartiality of the courts.

The Framework was developed by a working group led by Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen, with Associate Justices Ramon Paul L. Hernando and Rodil V. Zalameda as vice chairpersons, in consultation with various Judiciary offices, experts, and the academe. It also aligns with global standards, including ASEAN and UNESCO guidelines on AI use in courts.

A key feature is the use of the term “human-centered augmented intelligence,” emphasizing that AI should support—not replace—human judgment. The SC stressed that AI tools must promote the rule of law, human dignity, privacy, fairness, and social justice, while also encouraging environmentally responsible and sustainable use of technology.

To oversee implementation, the SC will establish a permanent Committee on Human-Centered Augmented Intelligence to guide the development and ethical use of AI tools.

The Framework applies to all judges, court personnel, users, and third-party providers. AI tools may only be used with SC En Banc approval and must be introduced in phases, starting with pilot testing.

Disclosure is mandatory. Users must identify the AI tool used, its purpose, and the extent of human oversight, and remain accountable for all outputs. AI use must also be disclosed in preparing court documents, including for transcription, translation, legal research, summarization, and document processing.

The SC emphasized that AI must assist—not replace—human reasoning. It cannot be the sole basis for judicial decisions, and human decision-makers remain fully responsible for final rulings.

The Framework also requires safeguards against bias and discrimination, along with training for court personnel on risks such as automation bias. Strict data privacy rules apply, and sensitive or confidential information may not be processed by AI without proper authority.

Before deployment, all AI tools must undergo risk assessment. The SC will also strengthen monitoring, auditing, and cybersecurity, while consulting stakeholders to ensure transparency and effectiveness.

The initiative supports the SC’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027, aimed at building a more transparent, accountable, and technology-driven Judiciary.