Sulu Vice Gov Sakur Tan meets top PH justices at an Eid dinner, pushing stronger ties between local governments and the judiciary. (Contributed Photo)
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines โ Sulu Vice Governor Abdusakur โSakurโ Tan joined some of the countryโs top legal figures in Manila this week, using an Eidโl Fitr gathering as a platform to strengthen ties between local governments and the judiciary.
Tan attended a fellowship dinner on March 23 at the Glass Pavilion of Dusit Thani Manila, organized by the Supreme Court in coordination with the Philippine Muslim Judges Association (PMJA). The event brought together key figures from across the justice sector to mark the end of Ramadan and reinforce cooperation in upholding the rule of law.
Among those present were Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, Senior Associate Justice Mario Victor โMarvicโ Leonen, and Associate Justice Japar Dimaampao, one of the most prominent Muslim figures in the high court.
The gathering opened space for rare, face-to-face conversations between provincial leaders and members of the judiciaryโs top ranks. Tan engaged officials on how national legal institutions and local governments can work more closely, particularly in ensuring access to justice in far-flung and underserved communities.
Also in attendance were Court of Appeals Justice Edilwasif Baddiri, Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida, and Turkish Ambassador Niyazi Evren Akyol, reflecting the eventโs mix of legal, government, and diplomatic representation.
Beyond the ceremonial aspect, discussions focused on building long-term partnerships and โfuture-proofingโ collaboration between local government units and the courts. Participants underscored the need for stronger coordination to address legal challenges in the regions, especially in the Bangsamoro.
For the PMJA, the event highlighted the growing presence and influence of Muslim legal professionals in the Philippine justice system, as well as their role in fostering inclusive governance.
The evening concluded with a shared commitment to deepen cooperation โ a step Tan sees as part of aligning provincial priorities with national judicial goals. (with reports from Ely Dumaboc)
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