Judge's everyday life should be beyond reproach; free from appearance of impropriety

Court exists to dispense and promote justice. Accordingly, the conduct of a judge should be free from any appearance of impropriety, and his personal behavior not only upon the bench and in the performance of official duties but also in his everyday life should be beyond reproach (Canon 2 of the Code of Judicial Conduct). Being the visible representation of law and more importantly of justice, he must be the embodiment of competence, integrity and independence and should be studiously careful to avoid even the slightest infraction of the law (OCA vs. Gines, 224 SCRA 261 [1993]). Likewise, he is required to observe due care in the performance of his official duties. He must dispose of the court's business promptly and decide cases within the required periods (Rule 3.05 of Canon 3 of the Code of Judicial Conduct). Having knowledge of internal rules and procedures, especially those which relate to the scope of his authority, he is in duty bound required to observe and abide by these rules and procedures which are primarily intended to ensure the orderly administration of justice. (Cuaresma vs. Aguilar, 226 SCRA 73 [1993]). [A.M. No. MTJ-95-1033. December 6, 1996]