Senate approves 71 new courts

The Senate today passed on third and final reading 17 bills seeking the creation of 69 new Regional Trial Courts (RTCs), one Municipal Trial Court (MTC) and one Metropolitan Trial Court (MeTC) in the country.

Senator Chiz Escudero, chairman of the Committee on Justice and Human Rights, delivered an omnibus sponsorship speech last Tuesday, September 11, on the creation of the additional courts.

Senate Bill nos. 3018, 3025, 3021, 3026, 3029, 3030, 3033, 3034, 3042, 3043, 3046, 3048, 3049, 3050, 3053, 3056 and 3059 were approved on second reading with committee amendments.

The 71 RTCs include one in Kidapawan, North Cotabato; four in Nabuntaran, Compostela Valley; one in Cauayan, Isabela; four in Malaybalay, Bukidnon; one in Bais, Negros Oriental; four in Barili, Cebu; three in Danao, Cebu; seven in Mandaue, Cebu; two in San Mateo, Rzal; 15 in Antipolo, Rizal; two in Lucena, Quezon; three in San Pedro, Laguna; one in Sta. Cruz, Laguna; six in Binan, Laguna; four in Paniqui, Tarlac; six in Angeles, Pampanga and five in Malabon City.

The MTC will also be added in Antipolo, Rizal and one MeTC in Malabon City.

Escudero the creation of the additional courts is expected to lessen the backlog of court cases in the country.

Meanwhile, House Bills 1426, 2407, 1967 and 2266, creating four new Land Transportation Offices (LTO), were also approved on third and final reading.

Once enacted into law, three district offices will be created in Quirino, Municipality of Luna, Apayao, Tubod, Lanao Del Norte and Dasmarinas City in Cavite. An extension office shall also be created in Samal Island, Davao. (OLIVE CAUNAN, PRIB)