MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) successfully concluded the 2024 National Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Convention at The Manila Hotel, aimed at promoting efficient and cost-effective conflict resolution outside traditional court systems.
The convention, which wrapped up on Thursday, was organized by the DOJ’s Office for Alternative Dispute Resolution (OADR) and was held in compliance with Republic Act No. 9285. This law encourages the use of ADR in both public and private sectors to resolve disputes more efficiently while maintaining strong relationships.
The event brought together 400 leaders and representatives from various sectors, including national government agencies, non-government organizations, and private companies, all focused on improving access to justice through ADR.
DOJ Secretary Boying Remulla encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the convention to promote ADR in their personal and professional lives. He emphasized that courts should not always be the first option for resolving disputes, highlighting the efficiency and affordability of ADR methods.
“Traditional litigation can be costly and time-consuming, suggesting that courts should be considered only after exploring all other available options,” Remulla stated.
Justice Undersecretaries Jesse Hermogenes Andres and Margarita Gutierrez, Assistant Secretary Randolph Pascasio, and Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon also spoke at the event, underscoring the importance of ADR in reducing the burden on courts and enhancing public trust in non-litigious dispute resolution methods.
OADR Executive Director V Margaret Raizza Andaman highlighted the historical significance of ADR, noting its roots in understanding human emotions and its ability to go beyond the strictness of legal frameworks.