Baguio city: Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Fredderick Vida announced the establishment of a new Regional Prosecution Office in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), highlighting its potential to significantly enhance the justice system in Northern Luzon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Vida emphasized the transformative impact of the new office, stating that it will ensure swift and accessible justice for communities in the Cordillera region. The initiative aims to reduce delays in case resolution and bolster coordination with local leaders and law enforcement agencies, thereby contributing to a safer Northern Luzon.

The construction of the new prosecution office is in alignment with Executive Order No. 220 (1987), which established CAR, and Republic Act (RA) 10071, known as the Prosecution Service Act of 2010. These legislative frameworks are designed to strengthen and rationalize the national prosecution service in the Philippines.

During a series of meetings over two days, Vida, alongside DOJ Undersecretary Ian Norman Dato and Assistant Secretary Francis John Tejano, engaged in discussions with local officials, including Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Rep. Mauricio Domogan, and newly designated CAR OIC Regional Prosecutor Joy Marie Frances Cortez. The talks focused on establishing a permanent prosecution office in Cordillera, improving case management, enhancing support for witnesses and victims, and addressing manpower and resource needs.