The Supreme Court recently announced that the 2024 Shariah Bar Examinations (SBE) will be rescheduled to a later date in observance of the holy month of Ramadan. This decision was made to accommodate the needs of prospective examinees and allow them additional time to review and prepare the application requirements.
Originally scheduled for February 25 and February 28, this year’s SBE will now take place on April 28 (Sunday) and May 2 (Thursday). The Office of the 2024 Shariah Bar Chairperson released an updated bulletin with these revised dates.
To ensure a smooth application process, the filing of online applications began on Monday, January 29, and will continue until March 18. It is important for applicants to submit the required documents within the prescribed period to avoid disqualification from the 2024 SBE.
During the application process, applicants are required to select their preferred local testing centers (LTC) through the website of Barista. However, it is important to note that the assignment of the applicant’s preferred LTC is subject to availability. Applicants will be informed of their assigned LTC no later than April 2.
The SBE will be conducted at two locations: the University of the Philippines (UP) in Diliman, Quezon City, and the Ateneo de Davao University in Davao City. For those who choose to take the SBE in Arabic, the exams will be administered through pen and paper at UP.
Passing the SBE is a prerequisite for individuals seeking to become lawyers under the Shariah court system of the Philippines. These courts, which are under the supervision of the Supreme Court, have jurisdiction over the Muslim-majority Bangsamoro and other parts of Mindanao outside the autonomous region.
Mindanao currently has 51 circuit courts that serve a similar purpose as the city and municipal courts in the regular court system. However, there are plans to establish a Shariah High Court for the Bangsamoro region, as outlined in the Bangsamoro Organic Law. This high court would have exclusive appellate jurisdiction over Shari’ah districts within the autonomous region.
Furthermore, there have been proposals to establish Shariah courts outside of Mindanao due to the growing Muslim population in other parts of the country. Senator Robinhood Padilla has filed Senate Bill 2215, which aims to establish additional courts to cover most of the Philippines, including three district courts. If approved, this proposal would expand access to Shariah courts in Luzon and the Visayas.
Recognizing the importance of a strong Shariah Justice System, the Supreme Court is taking steps to strengthen and improve access to justice for litigants in Shariah cases. This includes plans to constitute more Shariah courts, ensuring that individuals have fair and efficient legal recourse.
In conclusion, the rescheduling of the 2024 Shariah Bar Examinations provides prospective examinees with additional time to prepare. The Supreme Court’s efforts to establish and strengthen the Shariah Justice System reflect its commitment to ensuring access to justice for all. As the country moves forward, these initiatives will play a crucial role in meeting the needs of the Muslim population and promoting a fair and inclusive legal system.
Source: The Manila Times
