(File photo)
MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) saw a significant increase in its disposition of cases in the past year, Prosecutor General Benedicto Malcontento said Tuesday.
The rate of case disposition rose from 54.20 percent in 2019 to 89.20 percent in 2023, Malcontento said during the Planning Assessment and General Assembly of the Office of the Secretary of Justice Prosecution Staff (OSJPS).
Malcontento attributed the improvement to the National Prosecution Service's (NPS) progress in resolving cases and reducing the caseload for state prosecutors.
He said pending cases are down from 1,330 to a mere 465 within the same period, adding that there is a 100 percent resolution rate for petitions for review in 2023.
Malcontento credited the collective endeavor of all prosecutors and support staff for OSJPS surpassing its targets.
"The OSJPS achieved a very satisfactory adjectival rating for 2022 and has maintained such rating for 2023," Malcontento said.
Justice Undersecretary Jesse Andres also commended the OSJPS for its dedication and underscored the prosecutors' support for the significant reforms within the DOJ, particularly in case buildup as outlined in Department Order No. 20 s. 2023 issued by Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.
Andres said closer coordination between prosecutors and law enforcement agencies is crucial in expediting the preliminary investigation process to determine probable causes for filing charges. (PNA)
