JSCC holds Justice Zone dialogue in Baguio

Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, and Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos on Wednesday attended the Justice Zone Dialogue Series in Baguio City and affirmed their commitment to work together.

The three agencies — the Supreme Court, the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government — comprise the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC).

According to the Supreme Court, this is the first time that all principals were present in the dialogue series since its launch last year.

During the event, Gesmundo called on stakeholders to innovate and improve processes in the justice sector.

“The innovation that is the Justice Zone is by itself, a compelling example that innovation works for us in the justice sector and its importance is always a non-issue,” Gesmundo said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Remulla said the DOJ is focusing on pushing for an increase in the degree of proof necessary for the filing of criminal cases in court.

“We all know that there is a need to narrow the great divide between the current degree of proof needed for the filing of a criminal information, probable cause, and that of conviction, which is proof beyond reasonable doubt,” it said.

Abalos also expressed agreement with Gesmundo on the use of technological advancements in the justice sector.

The first three dialogues were held in Cebu City, Davao City, and Naga City. —Joahna Lei Casilao/KBK, GMA Integrated News