Judiciary Homecoming

Ju d i c i ar y H o m ec o m i n g

In the early 2000's, it was discovered that the Guma' Hustisia was contaminated with mold. A factor that contributed to this mold growth was the uncontrollable humidity in the Guma' Hustisia as a result of the high traffic flow and increasing number of staff in the building. The mold was further exacerbated in 2015 when the wrath of Super Typhoon Soudelor caused leakage and contributed to increased moisture buildup throughout the building. Areas affected included the courtrooms, judges and justices' chambers, and the Supreme Court Administrative offices. In 2017, after a meeting with CIP Adminitrator Elizabeth Balajadia, P.E., the Judiciary began mold assessment and eradication efforts. The Judiciary engaged consultant WM Engineering Services (WMES) to assess the antiquated HVAC system, as well as the mold infestation. In 2018, WMES completed the mold remediation report, which recommended the replacement of the air-conditioning system. The Judiciary staff moved out of the building and held trials and hearings at alternate sites---all done to allow HVAC and Mold Remediation projects to commence. After three long years, the HVAC and Mold Remediation projects were completed. As staff began phases of homecoming, furniture and equipment filled the atrium as a inventory transit area. Staff finally settled back to their respective offices by October 2021.