President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed into law measures establishing six new regional trial courts (RTCs) and two new metropolitan trial courts (MTCs) in Cebu, Isabela, and the Davao Region.
Signed on August 29, the laws expand judicial access and aim to reduce case backlogs in the affected areas.
Republic Act 12241 creates an RTC in Moalboal, Cebu, while Republic Act 12242 establishes one in Alicia, Isabela. Under Republic Act 12243, another two RTCs will be set up in Mati City, Davao Oriental.
Meanwhile, Republic Act 12244 provides for two MTCs in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, as Republic Act 12245 creates two RTCs in Ilagan City and Tumauini, Isabela.
The Supreme Court (SC) has been tasked with assigning branch numbers to the newly created courts and, in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ), integrating them into its operational programs. It will also issue the necessary rules and regulations to implement the laws.
Funding for judges, court personnel, prosecutors, and public attorneys, including salaries, benefits, operations, and facilities, will be provided through the annual General Appropriations Act.
