Congress wants faster prosecution of Sandigan cases

LEGAZPI CITY – Congress is set to reform the Sandiganbayan to improve the prosecution of cases.

Senate President Franklin Drilon said a new division would be set up to fast-track the hearing of more than 3,000 cases still pending at the antigraft court.

It is one of the major legislative measures he is going to push when Congress resumes session in May, he added.

Drilon said it takes five to seven years before a case is decided at the Sandiganbayan.

The reform at the anti-graft court will be completed in six months, he added.

Drilon said the efficient prosecution of crimes would enforce an effective system of deterrence nationwide.

“When we put these rogues in jail, we send the signal that no one is above the law,” he said.

“We made a strong statement that the law is always on the side of the victims and not on the side of the criminals regardless of their economic and social status.

“Our prosecutors play a huge role in bringing the perpetrators, in gaining the trust and confidence of our people in the country’s justice system.”

Drilon said the Senate will also work on the Comprehensive Bangsamoro Law that President Aquino had certified as urgent to ensure peace in Mindanao can contribute to the growth of the national economy.

Drilon was guest speaker at the 26th National Convention of the Prosecutors League of the Philippines at the Oriental Hotel on Wednesday. –