SC designates 26 RTCs to handle corruption cases

The Supreme Court (SC) has designated an initial batch of 26 Regional Trial Courts (RTCs) to exclusively handle corruption-related cases, particularly those arising from the multibillion-peso flood control controversy.

These designated courts are spread across six major regions, with Metro Manila and Central Luzon having five courts each, and Calabarzon, Bicol, Central Visayas, and Davao Region having four courts each.

SC spokesperson Camille Ting stated that this is only the first batch and all regions will eventually have designated anti-graft courts, though the courts and judges are not named for security reasons.

This initiative aligns with Republic Act 10660, which expands the jurisdiction of RTCs to exclusively hear and decide on corruption-related cases stemming from infrastructure projects.

Designated RTC judges will receive specialized training from the Philippine Judicial Academy, with lectures conducted by Sandiganbayan associate justices.

Appeals from the decisions of these special courts will be heard by the Sandiganbayan.