SUBJECT:  PROHIBITION AGAINST NON-LAWYERS PERFORMING THE FUNCTIONS OF NOTARIES PUBLIC.

In view of the information reaching this Court about the unethical practices of notaries public who are non-lawyers, you are hereby directed to refrain and desist from appointing and/or renewing the appointment of non-lawyers as notaries public. There shall be no exception in the application of this rule.

However, in those places where there are no lawyers, or there are not enough lawyers, non-lawyers may apply as notaries public directly with this Court on a case-to-case basis, conformably with its En Banc Resolution in Administrative Matter No. 85-10-8812-RTC dated October 29, 1985.

Strict compliance herewith is hereby enjoined.