RTC COCAP

RTC COCAP National President Atty. Rochelle Anne O. Obleno together with the Officers of the RTC COCAP Manila Chapter hosted a consultation meeting with Court Administrator Ma. Theresa Dolores C. Gomez-Estoesta on May 19, 2026.

Among the matters discussed were:

• Streamlining of reports
• Parameters for conducting fundraising activities of the Association
• Procurement of court supplies
• Career Enhancement Programs including the BCC and Judges lane in the PJP
• Clarifications on the disposal of old disposed records as residuals, particularly on documents required to be retained by the courts pursuant to existing circulars
• Disposal of non-drug and non-firearm evidence, including the possible collaboration with the Manila Chapter in crafting a collective circular that may serve as a guide for the aid of all Branch Clerks of Court nationwide
• Updates on the Salary Reclassification, with the Office of the Court Administrator reaffirming its continuing efforts to advocate for its favorable consideration based on its merits

The meeting served as a productive avenue for dialogue and coordination in further strengthening support systems, operational efficiency, and institutional initiatives within the judiciary, while reflecting the RTC COCAP’s commitment to proactive leadership, collaboration, and employee welfare.

Atty. Rochelle Anne O. Obleno reaffirmed her continuing commitment to advancing programs and initiatives that promote the welfare of Branch Clerks of Court nationwide.

Strengthening the judiciary through digital transformation and innovation.

The RTC COCAP Manila Chapter Officers successfully conducted a meeting and courtesy visit with Supreme Court Deputy Clerk of Court and Chief Technology Officer Atty. Jed Sherwin Uy to discuss the operational and digital capability needs of Branch Clerks of Court and judiciary personnel.

During the discussions, the officers presented key concerns and challenges encountered in adapting to evolving digital systems within the judiciary. In response, Atty. Uy proposed a structured digital capability training plan, with Manila identified as the pilot implementation chapter for the initiative.

Proposed programs include:

• Microsoft Teams and Outlook training/workshops
• Planner and workflow management workshops
• SharePoint and OneDrive collaboration
• Cyber hygiene and digital security
• Supreme Court digital platforms and e-Court systems
• Hands-on breakout workshops and live exercises
• Quarterly digital literacy refresher modules
• Proposed LMS modernization initiatives

The pilot rollout, targeted for July, is expected to involve all Branch Clerks of Court from Manila, with the vision of eventually expanding the program to regional and nationwide judiciary offices.

Likewise, Atty. Rochelle Anne O. Obleno actively advocated for the long-term regional and nationwide rollout of the initiative, with Manila envisioned to serve as the pilot chapter for the program’s future expansion.

⚖️ Moving Forward Together: RTC COCAP First Meeting Highlights

The National Officers and Board of Directors of the RTC Clerks of Court Association of the Philippines (RTC COCAP) recently convened for a Special Meeting at the Citystate Tower Hotel-Manila to chart the course for the new administrative year. Led by President Atty. Rochelle Anne O. Obleno, the board tackled several key initiatives focused on transparency, member support, and digital innovation.

Here are the salient portions of the meeting held on April 27, 2026:

I. Commitment to Transparency: The Board unanimously approved a formal audit and turnover of all financial records, scheduled for May 15, 2026, to ensure accountability and an orderly transition.

II. Strengthening the Organization: To better serve our members, eight standing committees were created, including:
1. Finance Committee
2. Strategic Planning Committee
3. Fund Raising (responsible for official merchandise and other initiatives)
4. Social Media
5. e-COCAP and Hotline (focused on digital transformation and member accessibility)
6. By-Laws Amendment
7. Beginner’s Manual (tasked with developing a guide for newly appointed clerks)
8. Career Enhancement

III. Member Support & Endorsements: A new policy was approved regarding the endorsement of applications for judgeship and other personnel movements, requiring a formal written request from members.

IV. Inter-Agency Collaboration: The Association is actively coordinating with the PNP (on firearm disposal procedures), the BIR, and PACE, Inc. to streamline administrative processes.

V. Looking Ahead: Plans are underway for a Strategic Planning Convention to further refine our goals for the legal community.

We are excited to begin this journey of service and digitalization! Stay tuned for more updates. 🏛️✨

RTC COCAP National President, Atty. Rochelle Anne O. Obleno, immediately attended the Roundtable Discussion of National Presidents today, May 7, 2026, reaffirming her steadfast commitment to the welfare and advancement of Clerks of Court.

Joining fellow judiciary leaders, she strongly advocated for the long-awaited salary reclassification of Clerks of Courts and Branch Clerks of Court — a meaningful step toward recognizing the vital role they play in the administration of justice.

This meeting further highlights the continued commitment of RTC COCAP to uphold and strengthen the voice of Clerks of Court and Branch Clerks of Court in advancing their welfare, professional growth, and representation at the national level.

Atty. Rochelle Anne O. Obleno, President of RTC COCAP National, briefly joined the courtesy visit with Mayor Isko Moreno (Mayor of Manila) through videoconferencing despite currently being in Japan.

During the exchange, Atty. Obleno expressed her support for the initiatives of the RTC COCAP Manila Chapter and highlighted the importance of ensuring that Manila remains represented at the national level through RTC COCAP National’s continuing efforts and leadership.

On April 27, 2026, Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo presided over the Oath-Taking Ceremony of the Regional Trial Court Clerks of Court Association of the Philippines (RTC COCAP), held at the En Banc Session Hall of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. On this momentous occasion, Chief Justice Gesmundo administered the oath of the newly appointed National Officers and Board of Directors and imparted words of wisdom as a guide and inspiration in their journey of service.

He emphasized that Clerks of Court are more than administrators - they are FRONTLINERS and the FACE of the judiciary. In every interaction, they are called to serve with efficiency, professionalism, and integrity.

His message challenged them to rise to higher standards: to uphold the dignity of their offices, remain steadfast in their duties, and stand as strong partners to their judges in strengthening the courts.

He likewise assured that the Supreme Court of the Philippines recognizes the tireless work of the courts and continues to support and uplift the judiciary.

With renewed purpose and unity, RTC COCAP proudly reaffirms its commitment to live by these guiding principles—striving to be a true extension of the Supreme Court’s vision of justice: accessible, responsive, and genuinely felt by every Filipino.

Credits: Supreme Court of the Philippines – Public Information Office

On April 27, 2026, the National Officers and Board of Directors of the Regional Trial Court Clerk of Court Association of the Philippines (RTC COCAP), headed by Atty. Rochelle Anne O. Obleno, President, took their oath before Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo at the En Banc Session Hall of the Supreme Court.

This marks the beginning of a new era defined by innovation, accessibility, and professional growth, driven by essential programs focused on digitalization, nationwide support systems, and career development. RTC COCAP ensures that its upcoming programs serve as key pillars supporting the Supreme Court's Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations (SPJI) 2022–2027. These initiatives aim to enhance court efficiency, promote innovation, and expand access to justice.

RTC COCAP is the national organization of Clerks of Court in the Regional Trial Courts, serving as a unifying body that promotes professional development, institutional coordination, and the efficient administration of justice.

Credits: Supreme Court of the Philippines - Public Information Office