SC designates special courts for infra anti-graft cases

The Supreme Court has designated specific Regional Trial Courts (RTCs) as special courts to exclusively handle anti-graft cases related to infrastructure projects.

This initiative aims to streamline the adjudication of anomalies and irregularities within these significant projects.

The designation follows a recommendation from Court Administrator Ma. Theresa Dolores Gomez-Estoesta and has been approved by the Office of the Chief Justice.

Designated judges will undergo training from the Philippine Judicial Academy, with lectures led by Sandiganbayan Associate Justices.

The training will cover various anti-graft laws and procedures, including Republic Act No. 10660, Republic Act No. 7080, Republic Act No. 3019, rules on bail in plunder cases, evidentiary rules in anti-graft cases, the rule on cyber warrants, and rules on forensic evidence.

Cases involving public officers below Salary Grade 27 will be assigned to the appropriate RTC, Metropolitan Trial Court, Municipal Trial Court, or Municipal Circuit Trial Court.

For areas lacking designated RTCs, cases will be transferred to the nearest judicial region equipped with these special courts.

Appeals stemming from decisions made by these designated RTCs will be processed by the Sandiganbayan.