Joy Tungol

University of Santo Tomas, Philippines

Title: Taking off the Robe, Voices form the Bench: Grounding of the Judicial Burnout Scale for Filipino Judges

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Biography

Dr. Joy Rigonan-Tungol, Ph.D., R.Psy., R.Pm., is affiliated with the University of Santo Tomas, College of Science and Graduate School as well as with YGEIA Medical Center, Inc. As a registered psychologist and psychometrician, Dr. Tungol is highly regarded in the field of psychological assessment. Dr. Antero Rosauro V. Arias, Jr., Ph.D., J.D., R.Psy., R.G.C., is affiliated with the Mapua University School of Health Sciences and the Katuwang Mental Health Program in Tagaytay. A registered psychologist and counselor, Dr. Arias serves as amicus curiae (friend of court) and is also a designated mental health doctor in Tagaytay. Dr. Arnulfo V. Lopez, C.Ht., Ph.D., R.Psy., is affiliated with the Arellano University School of Law and the University of Santo Tomas, Graduate School. 

Abstract

Abstract should Judicial burnout is a complex and culturally nuanced phenomenon that remains underexplored in the Philippine context. This qualitative study employed a grounded theory approach to conceptualize judicial burnout as experienced by Filipino judges to form an empirical basis to develop a Judicial Burnout Scale for Filipino Judges (JBS-FJ). By employing a qualitative research design, specifically a phenomenological approach, the research drew from two primary data sources. A previously unpublished exploratory study presented in a local academic forum, and a focused group discussion (FGD) organized by the Supreme Court’s Technical Working Group on Mental Health were done for the data gathering procedure. Licensed psychologists facilitated the FGD which convened 19 out of 20 invited judges from first- and second-level courts within the National Capital Region. Although institutional attendance was mandated, actual participation in the discussion was entirely voluntary and ethically obtained. Through the analysis of testimonies of the actual experiences of the judges, coding of responses was done. As a result, five (5) major themes emerged which reflective of judicial burnout. These are mental and emotional challenges, institutional constraints, physical exhaustion, decreased work efficiency, and inadequate support systems. The study offers a culturally responsive and empirically grounded framework in drafting an instrument that centers on the lived experiences of Filipino judges while addressing institutional and sociocultural stressors within the judiciary. By anchoring the instrument in localized realities, this research aims to support systemic responses to burnout and contribute to the advancement of mental health initiatives within the Philippine legal system.