Covid-19 has caused so many disruptions in our everyday lives. To curb its spread, the government had to impose strict lockdowns that stalled the economy’s growth. However, certain sectors that capitalized on technology managed to stay afloat and withstood the logistical nightmare caused by the pandemic. Because of the crisis, the concept of a “new normal” was introduced, in which the use of technology and the internet is critical.
Of course, the legal sector, recognizing the vital role it serves in sustaining the economy, is making serious efforts to adapt. In a laudable effort to latch onto the new normal, the Supreme Court issued on July 14, 2020 Administrative Circular 20-07-04-SC, or the 2020 Interim Rules on Remote Notarization of Paper Documents. These rules should take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two newspapers of national circulation.