(L-R: Philippine Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia, Vice Consul Greg Marie Marino, President Beinisch, Justice Nachura and Mrs. Conchita Nachura)

15 March 2011, Jerusalem – Philippine Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Eduardo B. Nachura visited Israel's Beit HaMishpat HaElyon in Jerusalem today together with Philippine Ambassador Petronila Garcia, Mrs. Conchita Nachura, Vice Consul Greg Marie Marino, and Mr. Alvin Conchas III.

The Beit HaMishpat HaElyon, also known as the Supreme Court, is considered the country's highest judicial instance. During his visit, Justice Nachura met with Supreme Court President Ms. Dorit Beinisch, the first woman to be appointed to the highest position in Israel's judiciary.

Both Justices engaged in a lengthy discussion of the Philippine and Israeli judicial systems, the legal foundations of both countries, and their experiences as members of their respective high courts. They also shared their views on human and constitutional rights, as well as interpretations of equality and the concept of human dignity.

Towards the end of the meeting, Justice Nachura presented President Beinisch with books on the history of the Philippine Judiciary and Supreme Court Decisions. In return, President Beinisch presented Justice Nachura with books on Israel's fight against terrorism under the law and a book on the unique architecture of the Supreme Court building.

Justice Nachura, Ambassador Garcia and their companions were also given a tour of the Supreme Court, where they were briefed on the history of the building, Israel's legal system and the structure of the High Court.

- END -