MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) has approved the filing of 62 money laundering charges against former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo (Guo Hua Ping) and 31 others, in connection with a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Bamban.
In a statement on Wednesday (15 Jan 2025), DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano explained that prosecutors recommended 26 counts of money laundering under Section 4(a) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) for handling illegal proceeds, and five counts under Section 4(b) for the transfer or movement of those funds.
The panel also recommended 31 counts of the same violation against Guo and her co-accused.
However, the DOJ dismissed a separate charge against Guo for concealing the source of the funds and dropped charges against lawyer Jason Masuerte, Nancy Gamo, and Cassie Li Ong for aiding in the money laundering offenses, citing insufficient evidence.
The case stems from illegal activities at the POGO hub, which law enforcement connected to scams such as love scams, investment fraud, and crypto schemes. These illicit profits were used to purchase various assets.
Guo and her co-accused are also facing charges of qualified human trafficking related to a June raid at the POGO hub, where 800 workers were rescued.
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has also linked the operation to drug syndicates and corporate fraud.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday (26 Nov 2024) said it fully supported the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in serving a subpoena to Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio.
This is in relation to the death threat made by Duterte against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
“Today, the NBI has begun conducting a manhunt operations to search for the alleged assassin/s hired by the self-confessed mastermind, VP Sara herself and make them accountable.”
“The DOJ reiterates its stance that threats made by any public official, regardless of their position, will not be tolerated and must be addressed through appropriate legal channels,” DOJ said in a statement.
On Tuesday (26 Nov 2024), NBI issued the subpoena in Duterte-Carpio’s office in Mandaluyong City.
In the subpoena, she was ordered to appear before the NBI main office on Friday (29 Nov 2024).
The DOJ said the Vice President has five days to respond and explain her recent threatening remarks against the three.
The agency reiterated that she is “not immune from suit” and will be held accountable for her disturbing remarks which is “something not be taken lightly.”
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MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) has tasked the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to assist in repatriating former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Royina Garma, who was detained in San Francisco on November 7, 2024.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the DOJ confirmed that Garma and her daughter, Angelica Garma Vilela, were detained in the US, but did not provide further details about the arrest. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said BI Commissioner Joel Viado has been directed to oversee Garma’s return.
Remulla expressed hope that Garma, a key figure in ongoing investigations, will continue cooperating with the Philippine government. Garma previously testified before the House of Representatives’ Quad Committee, where she implicated former president Rodrigo Duterte in the alleged Davao Death Squad (DDS) and a reward system for drug-related killings.
“We are committed to upholding justice and integrity, especially in critical cases like this,” Remulla said. “While Garma’s legal case is still being built, we consider her an important witness, and she will be offered witness protection for her cooperation.”
In addition to the drug-related investigation, Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon announced that the task force investigating extrajudicial killings (EJKs) will also reopen the case of PCSO board secretary Wesley Barayuga, who was murdered in 2020. A police officer has implicated Garma in the killing.
“The DOJ remains committed to supporting law enforcement and ensuring accountability,” Fadullon stated.
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MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday (06 Nov 2024) issued an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) against seven officials from the Office of the Vice President (OVP) in connection with the ongoing investigation into the alleged misuse of public funds.
The ILBO targets OVP chief of staff Zuleika Lopez, assistant chief of staff and bids and awards committee chair Lemuel Ortonio, financial services director Rosalynne Sanchez, special disbursing officers Gina Acosta and Edward Fajarda, chief accountant Julieta Villadelrey, and former DepEd assistant secretary Sunshine Charry Fajarda, who now works with the OVP.
According to DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano, the order is designed to track the officials’ movements rather than restrict their travel. He confirmed the ILBO would be forwarded to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for enforcement.
The request for the ILBO came from the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, led by Rep. Joel Chua, after the officials failed to appear for subpoenas and hearings. Chua added that there were reports suggesting some of the officials were planning to leave the country. At least one, Lopez, is already abroad on an official trip.
The inquiry was triggered by a privileged speech from Manila Rep. Rolando Valeriano, who cited a Commission on Audit (COA) report that flagged over PHP 73 million in confidential funds spent by the OVP in December 2022, out of an allocated PHP 125 million.
The COA has ordered Vice President Sara Duterte and several OVP officials, including Acosta and Villadelrey, to return the disallowed funds to the government.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Leaders of the House Quad Committee are calling on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to utilize findings from the mega panel to pursue legal action against former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and others involved in extrajudicial killings (EJKs) during his administration.
Manila Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. and Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez emphasized that while the Quad Committee does not have the authority to prosecute cases, they strongly urge the DOJ to act on their findings.
“If the DOJ requests, we are ready to turn over documents,” Abante assured, highlighting the committee’s commitment to cooperating with the justice system.
As chairman of the House Committee on Human Rights, Abante noted that these extrajudicial killings have impacted thousands of civilians, with estimates from the International Criminal Court indicating between 12,000 and 30,000 deaths during Duterte’s presidency.
“Willful killings have affected thousands of civilians,” Abante stated, stressing the systemic nature of the violence, which primarily targeted low-level drug offenders rather than major drug lords.
Fernandez pointed out the significance of Republic Act (RA) No. 9851, particularly the concept of command responsibility outlined in the law.
“RA 9851 clarifies the definition and penalties for acts against international humanitarian law, including genocide and crimes against humanity,” he explained, noting how Duterte’s own admissions could imply command responsibility.
Citing specific provisions of RA 9851, Fernandez stated, “Section 8 addresses command responsibility for superiors. As the supreme leader during his tenure, he bears responsibility.”
He added that Duterte’s role as commander-in-chief makes him accountable for the orders leading to the EJKs under his administration.
Abante reiterated the committee’s goal of seeking justice.
“We want justice to be served,” he asserted, emphasizing his position as chairman of the Committee on Human Rights.
While Abante condemned the presence of drugs in the country, he questioned the methods employed during the drug war that resulted in significant loss of life.
He challenged the rationale behind the thousands of civilian deaths, including minors, during the anti-drug campaign, asking, “Is it collateral damage when a 3-year-old or a 9-year-old is killed?”
According to Abante, most fatalities were drug users and pushers from impoverished communities, with only a few high-profile drug lords apprehended or killed.
He also criticized Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s dismissive remarks about the deaths, questioning the senator’s language and attitude towards the loss of life.
“What does he mean by ‘shit happens’? Perhaps he doesn’t understand the weight of that expression,” Abante remarked, challenging the normalization of violence during the drug war.
In response to a question about Duterte’s recent comments regarding a “death squad” and implications for retired generals, Fernandez said, “We know the President likes to joke, but sometimes it’s hard to discern the truth.”
However, he emphasized the necessity for accountability, stating that Duterte’s remarks must be taken seriously given his position as the country’s leader.
“Now, regarding his statements this time… he must be held responsible,” Fernandez insisted, highlighting the serious implications of Duterte’s words.
Fernandez urged the DOJ to apply RA 9851 to ensure accountability in cases involving crimes against humanity and EJKs.
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Manila —The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed on Wednesday (04 Sept 2024) the arrest of dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, in Tangerang City, Jakarta, Indonesia.
According to a statement from the DOJ, Guo was apprehended on September 3 at 11:58 p.m., as confirmed by Senior Superintendent Audie Latuheru of the Indonesian Police. The DOJ further verified the arrest through its counterparts in Immigration, confirming that Guo is currently in the custody of the Indonesian Police at Jatanras Mabes Polri.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla welcomed the news, emphasizing that Guo’s arrest showcases the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies and the power of international cooperation in bringing fugitives to justice.
“We will ensure that all legal processes are followed to hold her accountable for any crimes committed. The DOJ is committed to pursuing justice and will continue to coordinate closely with Indonesian authorities to facilitate the necessary legal procedures,” Remulla stated.
Guo is under investigation for her alleged involvement in illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and has also faced scrutiny regarding her citizenship status. Despite being subject to an immigration lookout bulletin, Guo managed to leave the Philippines on July 18. She reportedly traveled to Malaysia, arrived in Singapore on July 21, and reached Indonesia on August 18.
In a related development, Guo’s sister, Shiela, and business associate Cassandra Li Ong were previously arrested in Indonesia and have already been extradited to the Philippines. During a Senate Subcommittee on Justice and Human Rights hearing, Shiela admitted that she had left the country with the dismissed mayor by boat.
The DOJ continues to pursue legal action against Guo and her associates, reaffirming its commitment to bringing them to justice.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Raul Vasquez stated that it is too early to designate a state witness in the ongoing investigation into the issues surrounding Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
He emphasized that only a court, upon the recommendation of prosecutors, has the authority to declare a state witness.
“That is too premature to say,” Vasquez remarked.
He explained, “This is still in the preliminary investigation phase. Typically, a state witness is appointed by the court after the prosecution has determined who among the accused can provide critical testimony that will strengthen the case against the main culprits or masterminds.”
Vasquez also mentioned that the investigation into those who allegedly facilitated the escape of dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo and her companions, which may involve certain officials from the Bureau of Immigration (BI), is still ongoing.
“Stay tuned for the next chapter of this matter. The investigation is ongoing, and those responsible will definitely be held accountable. We are currently looking into the exact method they used—whether they exited through our airports or seaports, or perhaps through one of the many private ports in the Philippines. Remember, as a maritime country, it’s relatively easy to use these ‘backdoors,’ so to speak,” Vasquez explained.
Although Vasquez declined to name the immigration officials involved in the escape, he assured that they would face consequences.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Boying Remulla stated on Wednesday (August 28, 2024) that Shiela Guo cannot be considered a reliable state witness.
“I do not believe Shiela Guo or what she is saying,” Remulla remarked. He expressed skepticism over the claim that the dismissed Bamban Mayor would have traveled by fishing boat for three days to reach Sabah.
“It’s hard to believe. If she came from Bongao, Zamboanga, or Tawi-Tawi, it might be plausible. But from Zambales, over 1,300 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu? It’s like something out of a movie,” he added.
During a Senate hearing on Tuesday, Shiela Guo mentioned that she and her sister Alice used several boats to reach Malaysia. She admitted she was unsure of their destination as she was only accompanying Alice.
Remulla emphasized that Shiela Guo’s testimony must be proven indispensable to be considered for the case against Alice.
“She is not a reliable witness so far. It is essential to prove that her testimony is crucial for the case,” the DOJ Secretary said.
Shiela and Cassandra Ong, a Lucky South 99 incorporator, were apprehended in Indonesia and subsequently returned to the Philippines.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Boying Remulla has assured the public that the DOJ will comply with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s order to halt all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs)’s operations in the country by the end of the year.
Remulla emphasized that the DOJ will adhere to PBBM’s directive without compromising human rights, existing laws, and international comity, as most POGOs are operated by foreign nationals.
The word “comity” refers to courtesy and considerate behavior towards others. In legal and international contexts, it specifically means the mutual recognition and respect of laws and judicial decisions between different jurisdictions, such as between countries or states. It emphasizes maintaining harmonious and cooperative relationships.
“How we choreograph everything so that it falls properly into place until December 31 is crucial without violating people’s rights,” Remulla said.
During his third State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Marcos ordered a total ban on POGOs in the country and directed the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to wind down and cease POGO operations by the end of the year.
The Secretary made this statement alongside the deferment of the 60-day deadline set by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for foreigners working in POGO hubs to voluntarily leave the country.
Meanwhile, the Justice Secretary also acknowledged the possibility that some dishonest immigration personnel might exploit the POGO exodus for personal gain.
“Many elements within the BID might still try to make money, even as these people are leaving. We know that corruption remains an issue within the BID,” Remulla noted.
(ia/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Noticing some “red flags” in the Bataan oil spill, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is looking into a possible “conspiracy” that might have led to the recent maritime disaster in Bataan involving three vessels that leaked thousands of litres of fuel into Manila Bay.
This came on the heels of the statement of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday (2 August 2024) that all three vessels — MT Terranova, MTKR Jason Bradley and MV Mirola 1 — were “interconnected.”
“There are so many red flags dito [in this incident],” DOJ Undersecretary Raul Vasquez admitted at the Saturday News Forum in Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City.
It can be recalled that on July 25, the MT Terranova capsized and sank 3.6 nautical miles east off Lamao Point in Limay, Bataan, with one crew member reported to have died.
MT Terranova was carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel.
Two days later, on July 27, the MTKR Jason Bradley — another vessel — sank in the waters off Mariveles, Bataan.
It was carrying 5,500 liters of diesel, and was also found to have leaks.
Meanwhile, the MV Mirola 1 ran aground near the shore of Mariveles town. Oil was seen flowing into the ocean from tanks inside the motor vessel.
“‘Yan ang sinasabi kong red flag, pare-parehas na magkakadikit,” Vasquez noted.
He also expressed bewilderment why the vessels sailed despite warnings of an upcoming typhoon.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Is hitting a security guard with a paint spray an exercise of freedom to peaceably assemble?
Apparently having enough of rabble rousers, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla on Friday (19 July 2024) said the Department of Justice (DOJ) will go “all out” in support of the security guard who sustained a head injury after he was allegedly hit with a spray paint can by a demonstrator.
“The State unconditionally respects the right of the people to peaceably assemble and petition the government for redress of their grievances,” Remulla stressed in a statement.
But freedom is never absolute.
“However, in the name of justice and fair play, this right must end once the right of others begins,” Remulla pointed out.
The DOJ chief’s statement came after a security guard was allegedly hit on the head with a paint can after he reportedly scolded a protester for spray painting graffiti on the wall of the DOJ building.
The protesters argued that spray painting was part of their freedom of expression.
One of the rallyists was subsequently brought to the Manila Police District Ermita Police Station after the incident.
For his part, DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano asked protesters to “drop the anger and violence.”
“We urge rallying groups to avoid the rage rhetoric culture when rallying, understand what your true reason and motive why you are demonstrating, drop the anger and violence, let’s talk peacefully, convince rather than coerce,” Clavano said.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) emphasized on Saturday (June 29, 2024) that expelled Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves, whose application for political asylum in Timor Leste has been rejected twice, is expected to be brought back to the Philippines in July to face murder charges related to the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo in 2023.
Teves, along with 12 others, has also been labeled as terrorists by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC), citing alleged killings and harassment in Negros Oriental.
DOJ spokesperson Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic Clavano IV stated during the Saturday News Forum at Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City, “If by Monday they file…Hopefully, by the end of next week, a decision will be made. They are given 30 days to file.”
“We will likely see Mr. Teves back in the Philippines by the last week of July,” Clavano added.
However, Teves’ lawyer, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, plans to appeal the Philippine government’s extradition request, arguing that Teves cannot be extradited while his political asylum application is pending.
Clavano rebutted Topacio’s claims, asserting that Teves was not politically persecuted in the Philippines. He also dismissed concerns about the death penalty, stating, “We do not have a death penalty here in the Philippines. We have made significant efforts in human rights reforms and protections.”
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Expelled by the House of Representatives in August 2023 over his continued absence from his duties amid allegations of masterminding the assassination of Negros Oriental Gov Roel Degamo and five others in March 2023, former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves is now under house arrest in Timor-Leste.
This was confirmed on Thursday by Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Raul Vasquez after Teves’ lawyer Ferdinand Topacio claimed that his client had been released.
“We learned from Timor Leste Prosecutor General that former Cong. Teves is now on house arrest,” Vasquez quipped.
The DOJ also said extradition proceedings were ongoing.
“Regardless of whether he is in custody, rearrested, or on house arrest, he is under the control of the police authorities. Simply put, he is deprived of liberty,” Vasquez pointed out.
The DOJ further disclosed that Teves would be under “24-hour security, with only family members permitted to visit him.”
“The government will maintain close oversight of the situation to ensure that all procedures are both valid and appropriate,” the justice department said.
Local websites in Timor-Leste reported about the house arrest issue, which was also confirmed by Topacio.
“After having determined that he is not a flight risk and that he has not violated any laws, he was placed under guard in his residence simply to ensure his attendance in the hearings,” Topacio said.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has pledged its full support in allying with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure the quality of cases filed.
The DOJ made this statement following the PNP’s decision to form committees that will thoroughly review cases they have filed before the courts, which were eventually dismissed.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla welcomed the PNP’s initiative to create such committees, committing that the DOJ will collaborate with the PNP to “bridge the gaps.”
“Our prosecutors will take a proactive role in case build-up, ensuring that no stone is left unturned,” he added.
Under Department Circular No. 20, series of 2023, prosecutors are directed to be proactive in case build-up, equipping them with the expertise necessary to establish a strong prima facie case, supported by actual evidence, witnesses, and documents.
“The collaborative efforts of the DOJ and the PNP will safeguard the innocent while bringing perpetrators to justice. Evidence planting and case fabrication have no place; they are, and never will be, allowed in this administration. Legal processes will be in place to ensure that justice is served to those to whom it is due,” Remulla stressed.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed qualified trafficking and child exploitation charges against two individuals for selling a newborn baby online.
The charges were filed against Arjay Escalona Malabanan and Ma. Chariza Rivera Dizon, the latter being the mother of the victim.
The case originated from a complaint filed by the Philippine National Police-Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC) against Malabanan and Dizon.
“Evidence adduced sufficiently established the crime of qualified trafficking: respondents facilitated the adoption of the newborn baby; facilitation of the adoption was for a consideration of ninety thousand pesos (P90,000.00); purpose was to facilitate illegal adoption; the trafficked victim is a child; and the act of trafficking was committed by or through the use of ICT or any computer system, the transaction having been done through Facebook Messenger platform,” the resolution stated.
“The act of respondents in selling the newborn child is an act of exploitation,” it added.
The prosecutors recommended no bail for the qualified trafficking charges and a bail of P80,000.00 for the child exploitation charges, according to the DOJ.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized that children should be “fully protected by law,” describing them as the “most precious treasures of society.”
“We will never allow anyone to exploit them in any way,” Remulla said.
“Let us be the defenders of these vulnerable sectors and innocents who desperately need us,” Remulla added.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ), along with the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Finance (DOF), and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) signed on Monday (April 25, 2024) the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) on government workers’ right to self-organize.
These agencies specifically signed the 2024 Rules and Regulations of Executive Order (E.O.) No. 180 series 1987, “Governing the Exercise of the Right of Government Employees to Self-Organize.”
According to DOJ, among the salients points was the Registration of National Employees’ Organizations (NEO) which is the coalition of registered employee organizations within an agency for Collective Negotiation Agreements (CNAs), provides clearer qualifications and criteria for personnel eligibility to join employee organizations, use of electronic filing of pleadings/documents and online platforms, integration of new council policies, employee elections and other important guidelines.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said that the ability of government employees to organize is pivotal to a responsive and resilient government.
“Today, as we inscribe our names unto this document, we celebrate the role of each government employee in shaping a government that is of the people, by the people, and for the people,” the Secretary added.
“The IRR we sign today is a promise — a promise to safeguard the rights of those who serve our country, to support their well-being, and to support their invaluable contribution to our nation.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The terror unleashed in the previous Duterte administration in its bloody drug war will only be a lamentable thing of the past as the current administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is aiming to realize the Bagong Pilipinas that is not only prosperous and democratic but also free from fear of extra-judicial killings (EJKs).
This was revealed on Saturday (27 April 2024) as the Department of Justice (DOJ) declared that it has been actively implementing reforms to fortify the criminal justice system and enhance the promotion and protection of human rights to achieve a “100% EJK-free Philippines.”
The DOJ is headed by Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla who, political pundits said, is believed to be preparing to run for senator in 2025.
In a statement, the DOJ noted that the EJKs that reportedly took place during the current administration have nothing to do with the curtailment of the freedom of expression.
“Following a thorough inquiry, the DOJ Review Panel has concluded that reported EJKs under the current administration were not linked to the exercise of freedom of expression but rather to personal motives,” the DOJ claimed.
It added: “It is crucial to distinguish between killings related to legitimate law enforcement activities and true EJK incidents.”
The DOJ said it has reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting EJK cases with integrity and objectivity.
It urged victims and witnesses “to come forward and assist in putting an end to these heinous acts.”
“The government guarantees the protection of witnesses through the Witness Protection Program (WPP),” the DOJ assured.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — A total of 783 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) have been released by the Department of Justice through the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), led by Director-General Gregorio Catapang, during the culminating activity on Monday (01 April 2024) at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.
The released PDLs came from various prison and penal facilities nationwide under the BuCor.
DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated that the release of these PDLs not only addresses congestion in prisons and other detention centers but also facilitates their reintegration into mainstream society.
“Your resilience and perseverance in life within the difficult walls of the prison are a living testament that anyone who falls can rise even stronger, wiser, and better,” Remulla added.
According to the BuCor, the PDLs were freed through different means such as acquittal, parole, conditional pardon, cash bond, bail bond, expiration of maximum sentence, and expiration of maximum sentence with Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA).
Also present during the ceremonial rites were Undersecretary-in-Charge for Corrections Cluster Deo Marco, Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Chief Persida Rueda-Acosta, and Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP) Chairperson Sergio Calizo.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ), Supreme Court, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) have launched their 13th Justice Zone in Dagupan City, Pangasinan.
According to the DOJ, Justice Zones are strategic geographic locations focused on coordinating among the SC, DOJ, DILG, and other Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC) partners for the speedy and efficient administration of justice within a local sphere.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Boying Remulla assured that justice would always prevail.
“The Department of Justice is honored to be part of this momentous occasion where we can stand united once again with our partners in the swift and efficient administration of justice. On behalf of the Department, I want to reiterate my commitment that we will be relentless and unwavering more than ever in our pursuit of justice,” Remulla said.
Meanwhile, in his message delivered by DILG Undersecretary Lord A. Villanueva, DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos expressed solidarity in the cause of bringing accessible justice for all.
“Ang DILG, bilang isa sa mga bumubuo sa JSCC kasama ang SC at DOJ, ay patuloy na magta-trabaho para siguruhin ang paglaganap ng kapayapaan, kaayusan, at pagtataguyod ng hustisya para sa lahat sa ating bansa,” he said.
The DOJ, SC, and DILG are member agencies of the JSCC, which was institutionalized under the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028.
Justice Zones were also earlier installed in Quezon City, Cebu City, Davao City, Angeles City, Bacolod City, Naga City, Calamba City, Balanga City, Baguio City, Zamboanga City, Tagaytay City, and Puerto Princesa City.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Justice Board of Claims (DOJ BOC) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) forged a partnership to speech up assistance for human rights victims.
DOJ represented by the Undersecretary-in-Charge for BOC Deo Marco and CHR Chairman Richard Palpal-latoc signed the Memorandum on Agreement to safeguard the human rights victims.
Under the MOA, the DOJ is obliged to accept and evaluate referrals for claims from the CHR, provide a docketing system for the cases referred, conduct training, seminars and focus group discussions for the CHR about the Victims Compensation Program.
On the other hand, the CHR is mandated to inform their clients about the existence of the referral system, assist and refer qualified applicants, appoint a focal person, accept referrals from the DOJ for claimants not falling under RA No. 7309 and create an inventory of past cases which may still qualify to the Victims Compensation Program.
“Compensating victims of injustice is a form of mandatory justice accorded by the Rule of Law which no rule or formality should hinder in any way,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Boying Remulla said.
(el Amigo/MNM)