In a significant move toward digital transformation in legal practice, the Supreme Court of the Philippines, sitting en banc, has officially approved the Rules on Electronic Notarization under A.M. No. 24-10-14-SC through a resolution dated February 4, 2025. This decision marks a pivotal shift in the notarization process, allowing for the secure and efficient electronic notarization of documents while maintaining the integrity and authenticity of notarial acts.
The resolution stems from the increasing need for digitalization in legal transactions, particularly in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It follows the Supreme Court’s previous issuance of the 2020 Interim Rules on Remote Notarization of Paper Documents (RON Rules), which served as a temporary measure during community quarantines. Recognizing the growing necessity for a permanent framework, the Court established a Technical Working Group (TWG) to develop comprehensive rules that would supplement—not replace—the 2004 Rules on Notarial Practice.
Key Aspects of the Resolution
✅ Formal recognition of electronic notarization to enhance legal efficiency and accessibility.
✅ Accreditation guidelines for Electronic Notarization Facility Providers to ensure the security and authenticity of electronic documents.
✅ Expansion of jurisdiction for electronic notaries public, benefiting individuals in remote areas and overseas.
✅ Benchmarking best practices from jurisdictions such as the United States, Australia, Indonesia, Japan, and South Korea to craft a reliable and internationally aligned framework.
The Supreme Court’s approval follows multiple consultative meetings with legal experts, technology providers, government agencies, and international counterparts. The resolution was signed by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo and all participating Associate Justices, solidifying the judiciary’s commitment to embracing digitalization in legal services.
A Landmark Reform for Legal Modernization
This milestone reform aims to:
🔹 Modernize legal procedures through technology-driven notarial services.🔹 Improve accessibility for Filipinos both locally and abroad.🔹 Strengthen the integrity of notarized documents in an increasingly digital world.
The newly approved Rules on Electronic Notarization and the Guidelines on the Accreditation of Electronic Notarization Facility Providers are expected to reshape the landscape of notarial practice in the Philippines.
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