Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has enacted laws to establish five new regional and two new municipal trial courts across Cebu, Cagayan Valley, and Davao Region. The establishment of these courts is part of a legislative package aimed at enhancing the judiciary's capacity to handle cases more efficiently in these areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos signed Republic Acts (RAs) 12242, 12243, 12244, and 12245 on August 29, with the details published in The Official Gazette on Thursday. These new laws mark a significant development in the judicial landscape of the Philippines, as they introduce a Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Alicia, Isabela under RA 12242, two RTCs in Mati City, Davao under RA 12243, and additional RTCs in Ilagan City and Tumauini town in Isabela, established through RA 12245. Furthermore, RA 12244 creates two Municipal Trial Courts (MTCs) in Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

The legislation mandates the Supreme Court to assign branch numbers to the newly created courts, ensuring their identification and operational readiness. The Chief Justice is also tasked, in collaboration with the Secretary of the Department of Justice, to incorporate the new RTC and MTC branches into the Court's operational program without delay.

In addition, the Supreme Court is instructed to develop and issue the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of these laws. The financial requirements for personnel, infrastructure, and prosecutor positions are to be incorporated into the annual General Appropriations Act, ensuring that the necessary resources are allocated for these new judicial bodies.

The new courts will become operational following the appropriation and release of funds, which will occur upon the actual organization and appointment of personnel. The laws will take effect 15 days after their publication in the Official Gazette or another newspaper of general circulation.