Question

In July 2021, a civil case was filed before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) seeking damages for a vehicular accident. The accident involved two parties, Alex and Ben. Both parties presented their respective evidence during trial, including testimonial and documentary evidence. After the trial, the RTC conducted a thorough evaluation of the evidence presented.

However, due to an overwhelming caseload, the judge failed to render a judgment within the required period. It has been over a year since the trial concluded, and the parties are growing increasingly frustrated by the delay.

In light of this scenario, answer the following questions:

1. Discuss the importance and purpose of the duty to render judgment under Article 9 of the Civil Code.
2. What remedies are available to the aggrieved parties due to the failure of the judge to render judgment within the required period?
3. Can the judge be held liable for the delay in rendering judgment? If so, what are the possible consequences?