NEW ERA University has been designated as the National Headquarters for the 2026 Shari’ah Special Bar Examinations (SSBE).

As the official headquarters, NEU will serve as the Supreme Court’s command center for the nationwide administration of the SSBE, scheduled on May 24 and May 27, 2026.

The designation was formalized through a Contract Signing Ceremony led by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo and Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul B. Inting, Chairperson of the 2026 SSBE.

Justice Inting emphasized that the collaboration reflects the Supreme Court’s continuing commitment—under the leadership of Chief Justice Gesmundo—to expand access to justice and strengthen the administration of Shari’ah within the Philippine legal system.

He further underscored that NEU’s expanded role carries deeper significance when viewed in light of the SSBE’s purpose.

“The SSBE is more than just an academic undertaking. It is a manifestation of the Court’s constitutional duty to guarantee access to justice for all. It recognizes the legal traditions and rich cultural heritage of our Muslim brothers and sisters. Our justice system becomes more effective when it is inclusive and provides opportunities for all qualified individuals to serve.”

The 2026 SSBE will cover four subject areas:

• Jurisprudence (Fiqh) and Customary Laws (Adat) – 15%
• Persons, Family Relations, and Property – 35%
• Succession, Wills/Adjudication, and Settlement of Estates – 35%
• Procedure in the Shari’ah Courts – 15%

Examination questions will be based solely on laws, rules, and jurisprudence in force as of August 8, 2025. Examinees may choose to take the examinations in either English or Arabic.