Codals

Guidelines on the Use of Gender-Fair Language in the Judiciary

A.M. No. 21-11-25-SC adopts the Guidelines on the Use of Gender-Fair Language in the Judiciary and Gender-Fair Courtroom Etiquette.

CTA En Banc Resolution No. 03-2016 adopts the use of gender-fair language in court documents, communications, and issuances.

Under Republic Act No. 7192, government agencies must review and revise regulations, circulars, issuances, and procedures to remove gender bias.

Under Republic Act No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women, courts are expected to support gender and development mainstreaming in administration and adjudication.

Use gender-neutral terms for offices, roles, and parties whenever the sex of the person is not legally material.

Avoid sexist, exclusionary, or needlessly gendered wording in pleadings, orders, decisions, resolutions, and courtroom speech.

Prefer neutral institutional titles such as chairperson instead of chairman when the office itself does not require gendered language.

Keep courtroom language respectful, professional, and free from stereotypes, ridicule, or discriminatory references.