New investigation rules signed

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday witnessed the signing of the Department of Justice-National Prosecution Service (DoJ-NPS) Rules on Criminal Investigation, a move he said would lead to a more robust and responsive legal system in the country.

«The 2024 DoJ-NPS Rules are transformative as they institutionalize the executive and inquisitorial nature of preliminary [investigations], bringing them in line with historical and legal precedents that reinforce the authority of the Department of Justice,» Marcos said during the signing ceremony held in Malacañang.

«Through this, all prosecutors are now empowered to take the lead in criminal investigations, ensuring that there is proper and sufficient case build-up before filing in court,» he added.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla signs the new rules for preliminary investigations and inquest proceedings in Malacañang on July 10, 2024. This is also Secretary Remulla's first public appearance as he is still recovering from a heart bypass operation. National Bureau of Investigation Director Jaime Santiago was also present during the event. PHOTOS BY MIKE ALQUINTO

The new rules are seen to institutionalize the executive and inquisitorial nature of preliminary investigations in line with legal precedents and reinforce the DoJ's authority in this domain.

Further, the guidelines will enhance existing prosecutorial functions, empowering the DoJ to take a proactive role in the investigation of crimes and ensure efficient case build-ups, he added.

«Veering away from the procedures that were more rigid, the new procedure now allows the submission of additional documents, enabling a more comprehensive examination of the case,» the Chief Executive said.

Advertisement President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks on as Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla signs the new rules for preliminary investigations and inquest proceedings in Malacañang on July 10, 2024. This is also Secretary Remulla's first public appearance as he is still recovering from a heart bypass operation. National Bureau of Investigation Director Jaime Santiago was also present during the event. PHOTOS BY MIKE