2016REVISEDPUBLICATTORNEY’S OFFICEOPERATIONS MANUAL
2016 REVISED PAOOPERATIONSMANUAL
CHAPTER IPURPOSE
ARTICLE1.Purpose.ThisManualsetsforth,definesandconsolidatesthepolicies,rules, issuances1andprocedurestobeobservedbyPAOlawyersandemployeesinthehandling,recordingandreportingofcasesandinrenderingotherformsoflegalservicestoindigentsandotherpersonsqualifiedforfreelegalassistance.
CHAPTER IICLIENTELE
ARTICLE1.PersonsQualifiedforLegalAssistance.-PursuanttoBookIV,TitleIII,Chapter5,Section14oftheAdministrativeCodeof1987,asamendedbyRepublicAct9406,inrelationtoPresidentialDecreeNo.1andRepublicActNo.6035,thePublicAttorney’sOfficeismandatedtorepresent,freeofcharge,indigents,andotherpersonsqualifiedforlegalassistanceinallcivil,criminal,labor,administrativeandotherquasi-judicialcaseswhere,afterdueevaluation,itisdeterminedthat theinterest ofjusticewill beservedthereby.
Intheexigencyoftheservice,thePAOmaybecalleduponbythepropergovernmentauthoritiestorendersuchservicetootherpersons,subjecttoexistinglaws,rulesandregulations.Otherpersonsrefertonon-indigentswhohave acaseor caseswhich:
a.)entailnationalinterestandsecurityasmaybedeterminedbytheChiefPublicAttorney,pursuant tohis/her authorityunder RepublicActNo. 9406;
b.)urgentcasesthatmayneedimmediate actiontoavoidinjustice.
ARTICLE2.MeritTest.-Acaseshallbeconsideredmeritorious,ifanassessmentofthelawandevidenceonhand,disclosesthatthelegalservicesoftheofficewillassist,beinaidof,orbeinthefurtheranceofjustice,takingintoconsiderationtheinterestsofthepartyandthoseofthesociety.Insuchcases,thePublicAttorneyshouldagreetorepresentthepartyconcerned.Acontrario,acaseisdeemedunmeritorious,ifitappearsthatithasnochanceofsuccess,isintendedmerelytoharassorinjuretheoppositeparty,ortoworkoppressionorwrong.Insuchsituations,thePublicAttorneymustdeclinethecase.
However,iftheindigentclientisthedefendantorrespondentinaciviloradministrativecasealreadyfiledinanycourtorquasi-judicialagency,notwithstanding thedeterminationastothemeritofthecase,thePublicAttorneyshallstillrepresentorextendlegalassistancetotheclient,inordertoprotecthisrights.
APublicAttorneymayrepresentanindigentclientevenifhiscauseofactionisadversetoapublicofficer,governmentoffice,agencyorinstrumentality,providedthecaseismeritorious.Cautionshould,however,beexercisedthattheofficebenotexposedtochargesofharassment,unfairnessorhaste in thefilingof suits.
Incriminalcases,theaccusedenjoystheconstitutionalpresumptionofinnocenceuntilthecontraryis proven; hence,cases of defendants in criminalactionsare alwaysconsideredmeritorious.
1PAOissuances postAugust27,2010 –effectivityof thePAOOperationsManual
ARTICLE3.IndigencyTest.–TakingintoconsiderationrecentsurveysontheamountneededbyanaverageFilipinofamilyto(a)buyits“foodconsumptionbasket”and(b)payforitshouseholdandpersonalexpenses,the followingshall beconsideredindigentpersons:
1.IfresidinginMetroManila,whoseindividualnetincomedoesnotexceedP14,000.00amonth;
2.Ifresidinginothercities,whoseindividualnetincomedoesnotexceedP13,000.00amonth; and
3.Ifresidinginallotherplaces,whoseindividualnetincomedoesnotexceedP12,000.00amonth.
Thetermincome shallnot include thepensionreceivedbyretirees2.
Theterm“netincome”ashereinemployed,shallbeunderstoodtorefertothebasicincomeofthe litigantless statutoryandauthorizeddeductions.
“Statutory deductions” shall refer to withholding taxes, GSIS, SSS, PAG-IBIG, HealthInsurance andPhilHealthpremiums;and,otherloanamortizations dulysupportedbywrittencontracts.
Authorizeddeductionsshallbeunderstoodtoincludealldeductionsasreflectedinthepayslip,otherdeductionswiththeexpressedwrittenconsentoftheemployeeandinagreementwiththeemployer3,andall otherdeductionsthatcan besubstantiatedbythe employee.
ForpurposesofthisSection,ownershipoflandshallnot,perse,constituteagroundfordisqualificationofanapplicantforfreelegalassistance,inviewoftherulinginJuanEnajevs.VictorioRamos,etal.(G.R.No.L-22109, January30,1970),thatthedeterminativefactorforindigencyis the income ofthe litigantand not hisownership ofrealproperty.
Toensurethatonlythosequalifiedshallbeextendedfreeregularrepresentationincourtandquasi-judicialbodies,andtoaidindeterminingthenatureofthedeductions,theapplicantshallberequired to execute anAffidavit of lndigencyand submit ANYofthe followingdocuments:
1.LatestIncomeTaxReturn orPayslip, or other proofs of net income;or,
2.CertificateofIndigencyfromtheDepartmentofSocialWelfareandDevelopment,CitySocialWelfareandDevelopmentOffice,ortheMunicipalSocialWelfareandDevelopmentOffice havingjurisdictionover the residence oftheapplicant; or,
3.CertificateofIndigencyfromthePunongBarangay/BarangayChairmanhavingjurisdictionovertheresidenceoftheapplicant.
PublicAttorneysandpersonnelshallexercisediligenceinascertainingtheindigencyqualification ofsaidapplicant/s.
ARTICLE4.CasesWhichMayBeProvisionallyAccepted.–PublicAttorneysmayacceptorhandlecasesprovisionally,pendingverificationoftheapplicant’sindigencyandevaluationofthemerit ofhis/her case in the followinginstances:
2MemorandumCircularNo.002Seriesof 2016,datedFebruary26,2016Re: ExclusionofPensionintheDetermination ofIndigency Qualification of ApplicantsforPAOLegal Services
3PAOLegalOpiniondated 12August2016
1.Whenawarrantofarresthasbeenissued,andassistanceisneededinfilingaMotiontoPost BailBond or Reductionthereof forhis/her provisionalliberty;
2.Whenapersonisarrestedand/ordetained,andappropriateimmediatelegalactionisnecessaryto protecthis/her rights;
3.Whenapleadinghastobefiledimmediatelyoranappealhastobeperfectedtoavoidadverse effects to theapplicant;
4.WhenthePublicAttorneyisappointedbythecourtascounsel-de-oficiotorepresentthedefendantduringthetrialofthecase,provided,however,thatifasubsequentinvestigationdisclosesthattheclientisnotindigent,thelawyershouldrequestthecourttorelievehim/herbyfilingaMotionforWithdrawalofAppearancefromthecase;
5.WherethePublicAttorney isdesignatedonthespotascounseldeoficiofor thepurposeonlyof arraignment,pre-trial or promulgation ofdecision;
6.IncasesinvolvingviolenceagainstwomenandtheirchildrenunderRepublicActNo.9262(Anti-ViolenceAgainstWomenandTheirChildrenActof2004),whereimmediatepreparationandfilingofpleading/sisnecessarytoavoidadverseeffectstothevictims,except,wherethereisconflictofinterest.Non-indigentwomenandtheir childrenmayseek PAO’sassistance;
7.IncasesinvolvingChildreninConflictwiththeLaw(CICL),wherethereisanimmediateneed of counsel;
8.Incasesinvolvingcreditcardholder/sconsideredas“delinquent”bythecreditcardcompany,andimmediateaction is necessary;and,
9.Caseswhichrequireprovisionalassistance,pursuanttoSection3ofR.A.9406(Section14-AChapter5,TitleIII,BookIVofExecutiveOrderNo.292,otherwiseknownasthe“AdministrativeCodeof 1987”)to wit:
Sec.14-A.Powersandfunctions.–thePAOshallindependentlydischargeitsmandatetorender,freeofcharge,legalrepresentation,assistanceandcounselingtoindigentpersonsincriminal,civil,labor,administrativeandotherquasi-judicialcases.Intheexigencyoftheservice,thePAOmaybecalleduponbythepropergovernmentauthoritiestorendersuchservicetootherpersons,subjecttoexistinglaws,rulesand regulations.”(emphasissupplied)
10.Othersimilarurgentcases.
ARTICLE5.Persons/EntitiesQualifiedforLegalAssistancePursuanttoMemorandaofAgreement/Understanding,Department ofJusticeDirectives and speciallaws, as follows:
1.DepartmentofAgrarianReformlawyersagainstwhomcriminaland/oradministrativecomplaintshavebeenfiledforactscommittedinconnectionwiththeperformanceoftheirofficialduties(Direction oftheMinisterofJustice);
2.Farmer-beneficiaries ofthe AgrarianReformLaw, in:
a.agrarian-relatedcivil orcriminalcasespendingbefore thecourts;and,
b.casesagainstfarmer-beneficiariespendingbeforethecourtsortheDepartmentofAgrarianReformAdjudicationBoard(DARAB),whereoneofthepartiesisalready representedbyalawyerfromtheDepartmentofAgrarianReform(Memorandum of AgreementdatedMay8, 1991,betweenDARandDOJ).
3.Indigentlaborersinmeritoriouslaborcases(MemorandumOrderoftheSecretaryofJusticedatedMay19, 1988);
4.Indigentaliens(2ndIndorsementoftheUndersecretaryof JusticedatedMarch 25,1974);
5.QualifiedOverseasContractWorkersinallcaseswithintheoriginalandexclusivejurisdictionofthePhilippineOverseasEmploymentAdministration(MemorandumofAgreementbetweenPAOandDOLE,POEA,NLRC,OWWAandsomeNGOs,datedApril 2, 1993);
6.BarangayHealthWorkers(Section16,RuleIIandPart5,RuleVIIoftheImplementingRulesandRegulationsofRepublicActNo.7883–BarangayHealthWorkers’ BenefitsandIncentivesAct of 1995);
7.DepartmentofSocialWelfareandDevelopmentinthefilingofpetitionsforinvoluntarycommitmentofminors,aswellaspetitionsforthedeclarationthatachildisabandonedorneglected(DirectiveofMinisterofJusticeNeptaliGonzalesdatedFebruary10, 1987);
8.MembersoftheAssociationofLocalSocialWelfareandDevelopmentOfficersofthePhilippines,Incorporated(ALSWDOPI),incriminalandadministrativecomplaints/casesrelatedto,orinconnectionwiththeexerciseoftheirprofessionorperformanceofduties,unlessthereisaconflictofinterest,orwhenamemberdoesnotqualifyunderthePAO’sIndigencyTest,inwhichcase,provisionalassistanceshallbeaffordedtohim/her(MemorandumofAgreementbetweentheALSWDOPIandPAOdatedAugust 27, 2009);
9.QualifiedPrintandBroadcastMediaPractitioners,aswellastheirstaffandcrew,who,byreasonof,orinconnectionwiththeperformanceoftheirprofession,areharassedwithsuitsandcomplaintsintendedtohamperthefreedomofthepressandsuppresstheirindividualliberties(MemorandumCircularNo.01,S.2009,datedJanuary5,2009inrelationtoMemorandumofAgreementbetweentheNationalPressClub[NPC]andPAOdated May29, 2009);
10.DangerousDrugsBoard(DDB),itsauthorizedrepresentativesanddrugoffendersinthefilingofPetitionsforvoluntaryconfinement,exceptwhenthereisconflictofinterest(MemorandumofAgreementbetweenDDBandPAOdatedJuly15,2008,asreinforcedbyMOA dated August 22, 2016);
11.ComplaintsofFilipinosagainstforeignersforviolationof immigration, alienregistrationandotherlocallaws;respondentforeignersindeportationcases;BureauofImmigration(BI)clientsinconnectionwiththeNotarizationofapplications;andsuchotherlegalservicesthatmaybeassignedbytheCommissioner(MemorandumofAgreementbetween theBIandPAO datedFebruary4, 2009);
12.MembersofthePressPhotographersofthePhilippines(PPP)underinvestigationforacomplaint,orontrial,includinginquestproceedings,relatingto,orinconnectionwith,theexerciseofprofessionorperformanceofduties;andthefamiliesofPPPmemberswhoarevictimsofmediakillings(MemorandumofAgreementbetweenthePPPandPAOdated May25, 2009);
13.OfficialsofthePhilippineNationalPolice(PNP)holdingtheranksofPoliceOfficerI(PO1)toSeniorPoliceOfficerIV(SPO4),whensuedintheperformanceoftheirduties(DOJDepartmentOrderNo.106datedFebruary25,2009,andPAOMemorandumdatedMarch19,2009;andDOJDepartmentCircularNo.78datedOctober26,2009,andPAOMemorandumdatedNovember 9, 2009)4;
14.TorturevictimspursuanttotheAnti-TortureAct5of2009(R.A.9745) [Note:thePublicAttorney’sOfficehastheauthoritytoconductanindependentinvestigationincasesinvolvingtorture per R.A.9745];
15.PhilippineStatisticsAuthorityCensusPersonnelwithrespecttoNotarizationoftheirContracts ofService6;
16.QualifiedTaiwaneseNationalsuponNotice bytheLegalAidFoundation,Taiwan(MemorandumofAgreementbetweenPAOandtheLegalAidFoundation,Taiwan,datedOctober27, 2014);
17.QualifiedconstituentsofmembermunicipalitiesoftheLeagueofMunicipalitiesofthePhilippines(MemorandumofAgreementdatedJune30,2011betweentheLeagueofMunicipalities ofthePhilippinesand thePAO);
18.TheOfficeforCompetition(OFC)and/oritsmembersandthesectorregulatorsand/oritsofficialsincasesproscribedbythemandateoftheOfficeoftheSolicitorGeneral(OSG)through the speciallyconstitutedPAOTask Force7;
19.QualifiedrefugeesanddisplacedpeopleswithinthePhilippines(MemorandumofUnderstandingbetweenthe PAOandtheUNHCR,datedJanuary8, 2013);
20.Asylumseekers,refugeesandstatelesspersonsintheAutonomousRegionofMuslimMindanao(ARMM)(MemorandumofUnderstandingbetweenthePAO,theRegionalHumanRightsCommission[RHRC],andtheUnitedNationsHighCommissionforRefugees[UNHCR],dated June21, 2013);
4 DOJDepartmentOrderNo.106datedFebruary25,2009,andDOJDepartmentCircularNo.78datedOctober26,2009wereissuedbythelateSecretaryofJusticeRaulM.GonzalezandtheformerSecretaryofJusticeAgnesVSTDevanadera,respectively.PAOMemorandadatedMarch19,2009andNovember9,2009,whichtransmittedthesaidDOJissuances,werebothissuedbyChief PublicAttorneyPersidaV.Rueda-Acosta.
5Section1,R.A. 9745
6MemorandumCircularNo.003Seriesof2015datedJune8,2015
7GuidelinesOnLegalRepresentationfortheOfficeforCompetition(OFC)andSectorRegulators,clause1.5ExemptiontotheAuthorityforLegalRepresentationbytheOSGandclauses2.2and2.3ScopeofRepresentation;thePAOthroughthePAOTaskforceshallassisttheOFCandoritsmembersandsectorregulatorsand/oritsofficialsinrelationtotheexerciseof their official dutiesin handlingcompetition-relatedmatters incriminalandadministrative cases.
21.PublicschoolteacherswhoareappointedasBoardofElectionInspectors(BEI)andarebeingsuedinrelationtothesaidfunction(MemorandumofAgreementbetweenthePAO,theDepartmentofEducation[DepEd],andtheCommissiononElection[COMELEC], datedApril 29, 2016);
22.IndividualsorPresidentialCommissionfortheUrbanPoor(PCUP)-accreditedUrbanPoorOrganizationindorsedbythePCUP,subjecttoPAOrulesandregulations(Memorandum of Agreementbetween thePAO andPCUPdatedDecember23, 2011);
23.NewlycommittedinmatesandotherqualifiedinmatesoftheBureauofJailManagementandPenology(BJMP)facilities(MemorandumofAgreementbetweenPAOandBJMPdatedMay31, 2016);
24.Membersofthe Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC), Inc. underinvestigationforacomplaint,orontrial for a case, related to or in connection with theexerciseof their professionorperformanceof their duties, andthefamiliesofthe PMPC memberswhoarevictimsofmediakillings(MemorandumofAgreementbetweenthe PAO andPMPC, dated April23, 2012).
ARTICLE6. Otherpersonsqualifiedforassistance.–
1.Exceptinelectionrelatedcases,immediatemembersofthefamily,andrelativeswithinthe4thcivildegreeofconsanguinityoraffinityofthePublicAttorney,mayavailofhis/herservicesregardlessofqualificationundertheindigencytest,subjecttotheapprovaloftheChiefPublicAttorney,upontherecommendationoftheRegionalPublicAttorneyorServiceHead,asthecasemaybe.ThelawyerconcernedshallsubmitanAffidavitofKinship,filealeaveofabsenceduringhearings,andsubmitamonthlystatusreportonthecase;
2.PublicAttorneysandPAOemployeesmayavailoftheservicesofthePublicAttorney’sOfficeincriminalcases,providedtheOfficeisnottheadverseparty;
3.PublicAttorneysandPAOemployeesmayalsoavailoftheservicesofthePAOinanycasefiledagainstthemincourts,tribunals,quasi-judicialagenciesandotherofficesinrelationtotheperformanceofduties,providedtheOfficeisnottheadversepartyandupon approval ofthe Chief PublicAttorney.
ARTICLE7.Personsnotqualifiedforlegalassistance.– PublicAttorneysandemployeesareprohibitedfromassistingthefollowing:
1.Juridicalperson/sandprivate/stockcorporations;exceptjuridicalentitieswhicharenon-stock,non-profitorganizations,whoseindividualmemberswillpasstheindigencytestoftheOffice.Incasesinvolvinglanddisputes,thePAOcanrepresentsaidjuridicalperson/sprovided theyare not the lessor/sthereof;
2.PartieswhodonotpassthelndigencyTests,unlessappointedascounseldeoficioincriminalcases,andonlyunderexistinglaws,rulesandregulations,orpursuanttothe2ndparagraph of Article 1,ChapterII,hereof;
3.Qualifiedpartiesrepresentedbydepartecounsels,unlesssaidcounselshadwithdrawntheirservices;
4.Landlordsorlessorsofresidentialandcommerciallandsand/orbuildings,withrespecttothefilingofcollectionorunlawfuldetainersuitsagainsttheirtenantsorlessees;and,
5.Politicalcandidatesandparties in allelectionrelatedmatters.
ARTICLE8.CasesNotToBeHandled.–PublicAttorneysshallnotextendlegalassistance8in the followingcases:
A.Where theywould be representingconflictinginterests;
B.CasesinvolvingviolationsofBatasPambansaNo.22(B.P.22),otherwiseknownastheAnti-BouncingChecksLaw”,unlessthePublicAttorneyisappointedbythecourtascounsel de oficio,subject toParagraph4, Article4, ChapterIIofthis Manual9.
C.ProsecutionofCriminalCases,exceptinthefollowinginstanceswherethereexistsnoconflictofinterestandtheaccusedisnotaclientofthePublicAttorney'sOfficeinthesubjectcase, to wit10:
1.WhenthePublicAttorney'sOfficeassistedtheoffendedparty/complainantduringthepreliminaryinvestigationstageintheProsecutor’sOffice,onfirst-come-first-servedbasis,andthecaseisonappealorcertioraribeforethecourts11;
2.WhenthereisadirectivefromtheSecretaryofJusticeorothergovernmentauthoritiestoassisttheProsecutor(s)assignedtoprosecutethecriminalcaseincourt12; and
3.ComplaintsforBP22casesarisingfromanexistingcaseformoneyclaimsbeinghandledbythePAOwherecheckpaymentwasmadebutbouncedorinsufficient to satisfythemoneyclaim.
D.Adoptioncases,exceptininstanceswheretheadopteristhebiologicalparentorthestep-parent oftheadoptee,subject tothe indigencytest.
ARTICLE9.DenialofServices,Forms.WherethePublicAttorneydeniesservicetoanapplicantpursuanttotheforegoingprovisions,he/sheshallissuetotheapplicantaDenial/DisqualificationForm(PAO-FOSS-12).
CHAPTER III
HANDLINGOFCRIMINALCASESPURSUANT TOTHE PROVISIONS OFTHESPEEDYTRIALACTAND ITS IMPLEMENTINGRULES
ARTICLE1.CasesCoveredByTheRulesOnSummaryProcedure–UponlearningofthefilingofanInformationagainst a client, the Public Attorneyshall:
8OfficeOrder No.124, Seriesof 2011
9Ibid
10Ibid
11Ibid
12Ibid
A.MotionToQuash/Dismiss.–FileaMotiontoQuash/Dismisstheinformationagainsttheaccusedwithintheten-day(10)periodforfilingthecounter-affidavit,whereappropriate,and onlyon the followingtwogrounds:
1.lack ofjurisdictionover the subjectmatter;and,
2.lack ofreferral to thebarangayconciliationprocess.
B.Counter-Affidavit.–Filetherequisitecounter-affidavitoftheaccusedandtheaffidavit/sofhis/herwitnesses,aswellasdocumentaryevidenceinsupportthereof,ifany,wherenoneoftheabovegroundsforaMotiontoQuash/Dismissispresent,withinten(10)daysfrom thetimethat the accusedreceivedacopyofthesubpoena/summons.
ARTICLE2.CasesUnderRegularProcedure.–Whenawalk-in-clientoradetainedpersonavailsoftheservicesoftheOfficeoraPublicAttorneyisappointedascounseldeoficiofortheaccused, the Public Attorneyshall:
A.ImmediatelysecureacopyoftheInformationandaffidavitofthecomplainantandhis/herwitnessesandother documentaryevidenceagainst the accused;
B.Interview the accused,focusingon:
1.thelegalityofthearrest,thenatureofthechargeandhis/herrightsunderexistinglaws,includinghis/herright to demandtrial;
2.thetheoryofdefense,his/herwitnessesandhis/herdocumentaryevidence,ifany;and,
3.the pleaofthe accused,orthepossibilityof pleabargaining.
C.Moveforapreliminaryinvestigation/reinvestigationwithinfive(5)daysfromlearningofthefilingoftheinformation13,ifbeneficialtotheaccused,andifhe/sheisentitledthereto.Incaseofanadverseresolution,thePublicAttorneymayfileaMotionforReconsiderationorappealthesametotheRegionalProsecutor’sOffice14/SecretaryofJustice;
D.DeterminetheexistenceofagroundforaMotionto QuashorDismiss,andwhereapplicable,thePublicAttorneyshallfilethesamepriortoarraignment15,exceptwhentodo so would notworktothe advantage ofthe accused.
ARTICLE3.DutiesWhereAccusedisDetained.–IfthePublicAttorneyknowsthatapersonchargedofacrimeisdetained,eitherbecausehe/sheischargedofabailablecrimebuthasnomeanstopostbail;ischargedofanon-bailablecrime;orisservingatermofimprisonmentinanypenalinstitution,the Public Attorneyshall:
13Section7,Rule112,RulesofCourt.WhentheAccusedLawfullyArrestedWithoutaWarrant.–xxx.Afterthefilingofthecomplaintorinformationincourtwithoutapreliminaryinvestigation,theaccusedmaywithinfive(5)daysfromthetimehelearnsofitsfiling,askforapreliminaryinvestigationwiththesamerighttoadduceevidenceinhisdefenseasprovidedinthisRule.
14Changed toreflectthechangeinthe nomenclature fortheNationalProsecution Service
15Section1.Timetomovetoquash.—Atanytimebeforeenteringhisplea,theaccusedmaymovetoquashthecomplaintor information.
a.FileaMotionmanifestingthatthedetainee/prisonerdemandsarraignment/trialand,forthispurpose,thatthecustodianofthedetainee/prisonerbeorderedtobringthedetainee/prisonerto the court,fromtime totime,asordered;
b.Uponreceiptofnoticefromthecustodianthathe/shehasinhis/hercustodyadetainee/prisonerwhodemandstrial,thePublicAttorneyshallfileaMotionthatsaiddetainee/prisonerbebrought to courtfor arraignment/trial.
Foranaccusedwhodesirestopostbail,wherethecasehasnotbeenraffledtoaregularbranchofthecourt,thePublicAttorneyshallfileaMotiontoFixAmountofBailbeforetheExecutiveJudge16.
Wherethebailinitiallyfixedbythejudgetowhomthecaseisraffledisoutsidethefinancialabilityofthe accused, thePublic Attorneymaymove for itsreduction17.
ARTICLE4. Duties on Arraignment.–ThePublic Attorneyshall:
A.Ascertainthescheduleforthearraignmentoftheaccused.Shouldtherebenone,he/sheshallimmediatelyfile aMotion to SetCaseforArraignment oftheaccused:
1.Within thirty(30) daysfromthetimethe courtacquiredjurisdictionover the personofthe accused;
2.Withinten(10)daysfromthedateoftheraffle18orfromreceiptoftheinformationifthe accused is a detentionprisoner.
B.Immediatelyafterarraignment,moveeitherinopencourtorinwritingthatpre-trialbescheduled:
1.Withinthirty(30)days fromthetimethecourtacquiredjurisdictionovertheperson oftheaccused19who is out on bail;or,
2.Withinten(10)days afterthearraignment ifthe accusedis a detention prisoner20.ARTICLE5. DutiesonPre-trial.– DuringPre-trial, the Public Attorneyshall:
A.Ensurethattheagreementsoradmissionsmadeorenteredintoduringthepreliminaryand/orpre-trialconferencearefaithfullyandaccuratelyreflectedinthewrittenformbeforesigningthetranscription,totheendthattheaccusedshallbeboundonlybytheadmission/smadebyhim/her,andbytheagreement/sthathe/she actuallyentered into21;
16Section2ofA.M.No.12-11-2-SC–GuidelinesforDecongestingHoldingJailsbyEnforcingtheRightsofAccusedPersonsto BailandtoSpeedyTrial.
17Section3,A.M.12-11-2-SCandOfficeOrderNo.086datedMay28,2014,providingthesampleformsforMotionforReleaseonRecognizanceandMotionforBail, pursuant toA.M.No. 12-11-2-SC.
18Section1(e)Rule116RulesofCourt.Whentheaccusedisunderpreventivedetention,hiscaseshallberaffledanditsrecordstransmittedtothejudgetowhomthecasewasraffledwithinthree(3)daysfromthefilingoftheinformationorcomplaint.Theaccusedshallbearraignedwithinten(10)daysfromthedateoftheraffle.Thepre-trialconferenceofhiscase shall beheldwithinten(10)daysafterarraignment.
19Section1,Rule118,RulesofCourt.Pre-trial;mandatoryincriminalcases.—Inallcriminalcasesxxx,thecourtshallafterarraignmentandwithinthirty(30)daysfromthedatethecourtacquiresjurisdictionoverthepersonoftheaccused,unlessashorterperiod isprovidedforxxx.
20Section1(e)Rule 116RulesofCourt
21R.A.8493,Section3.Pre-trialAgreement.–Allagreementsoradmissionsmadeorenteredintoduringthepre-trialconferenceshallbereducedtowritingandsignedbytheaccusedandcounsel,otherwisethesameshallnotbeusedinevidence against theaccused.xxx.
B.IncompliancewiththeJudicialAffidavitRule(A.M.12-8-8-SC)inapplicablecases22,and/ortoexpeditetheproceedings,andiffavorabletotheaccused,thePublicAttorneyshall/maypreparejudicialaffidavits,withintheperiod/sprovidedtherefor23;subjecttoadditionaldirectexamination,incaseofclearnecessityandintheinterestofspeedydisposition ofthecase;
C.DetermineifthePre-trialOrderisanaccuratereflectionoftheactionstaken,thefactsstipulatedandthepiecesofevidencemarked.Shouldtherebeerrorsorinaccuracies,movefor thesameto be rectified,priorto theagreed/scheduledinitialpresentation ofevidence24;
D.Thereafter,moveforthesettingofthecasefortrialtocommence,withatleastfifteen(15)daystoprepareforthesame,butlikewisemakingsurethattheinitialpresentationofevidence besetwithinthirty(30)daysfromreceipt ofthePre-trial order25;
E.Intheeventthatthepre-trialhasalreadybeenscheduledandthecomplainantfailstoappeardespiteduenotice,movefortheterminationofthepre-trialandthesettingofthecase for trial.
ARTICLE6.TimeLimitforTrial.–WhenthecaseissetfortrialbytheCourt,thePublicAttorneyshalltakenoteandseetoitthatthecaseissetforcontinuoustrialonaweeklyorothershorttermtrialcalendarattheearliestpossibletime,EXCEPTforcasesfallingundertheRulesofSummaryProcedure.
Theentiretrialperiodshallnotexceedonehundredeighty(180)daysfromthefirstdayoftrialforcasestriedunderregularprocedure,andsixty(60)days26forcasestriedundertheJudicialAffidavitRule,EXCEPTwhenthetrialcourtisauthorizedinwritingbytheChiefJusticeorbytheCourtAdministrator.
ARTICLE7.WhentheAccusedEntersaPleaofNotGuilty.–Iftheaccusedentersapleaofnotguilty,thePublicAttorneyhasatleastfifteen(15)daystopreparefortrial,whichshallcommencewithin thirty(30) days from receipt ofthe pre-trialorder.
ARTICLE8.Exclusions.–ThePublicAttorneyshalltakenoteoftheperiodsetforthinR.A.8493fortheSpeedyTrialand/or Resolutionofcases,andshallseetoitthatonlytheallowableperiodsofdelay27asprovidedinSection10thereofbeexcludedfromcomputingthetimewithinwhichtrialmust commence.
22Section9. Applicationof rulesto criminalactions. –(a) Thisrule shallapply toallcriminalaction: (1)wherethe maximumoftheimposablepenaltydoesnotexceedsixyears; (2)wheretheaccusedagreestotheuseofjudicialaffidavitirrespective of thepenaltyinvolved; or(3)withrespecttothecivil aspectoftheactions, whateverthe penaltiesinvolvedare.23Section2(a)and 9(b)and(c)A.M.12-8-8-SC(JudicialAffidavitRule) -
24Section2.Rule118,RulesofCourt.Pre-trialagreement.—Allagreementsoradmissionsmadeorenteredduringthepre-trialconferenceshallbereducedinwritingandsignedbytheaccusedandcounsel,otherwise,theycannotbeusedagainsttheaccused.Theagreementscoveringthemattersreferredtoinsection1ofthisRuleshallbeapprovedbythecourt.
25Section1.Rule119,RulesofCourt.Timetopreparefortrial.—Afterapleaofnotguiltyisentered,theaccusedshall
haveatleastfifteen(15)daystopreparefor trial.Thetrial shallcommencewithinthirty(30) daysfromreceipt ofthepre-trialorder. (sec. 6,cir.38-98)
26Thecourtshallterminatetheregulartrialwithinonehundredeighty(180)days,orthetrialbyjudicialaffidavitswithinsixty
(60)days,reckonedfromthedatetrialbegins,minustheexcluded delaysor postponements specifiedinRule119theRulesof CourtandtheSpeedyTrialAct of1998.[A.M. 12-11-2-SC, Sec.8(e)]
27Section10. Exclusions. Thefollowingperiodsofdelayshallbeexcludedincomputingthetimewithinwhich,trialmustcommence:
(a)Anyperiodofdelayresultingfromotherproceedingsconcerningtheaccused,includingbutnotlimitedtothefollowing:
1.Delayresultingfromthe examinationofthephysicalandmental condition ofheaccused;
2.Delayresultingfromproceedingswithrespect toother criminal chargesagainst theaccused;
ARTICLE9.TimeLimitFollowinganOrderforNewTrial.–Ifthereisanorderfortheaccusedtobetriedagain,thePublicAttorneyshallseetoitthatthetrialshallcommencewithinthirty
(30)daysfromnoticeoftheorder;exceptwhenwitnessesareunavailable,orotherfactorsmaketrialwithinthirty(30)daysimpractical;inwhichcase,theperiodmaybeextended,butsuchextensionshall not exceed one hundred eighty(180) days from noticeofthe order for new trial28.
ARTICLE10.RemedyWheretheAccusedisNotBroughttoTrialWithintheTimeLimit.–IfanaccusedisnotbroughttotrialwithinthetimelimitrequiredbySection729ofR.A.8493,thePublicAttorneyshallmovetodismissthecharge/informationonthegroundofthedenialofhis/herrighttospeedytrial.ThePublicAttorneyshallprovetheviolationofthetimelimitssetbytheAct,andrebutthat thedelayisattributableto anyallowed exclusion from the periodsetbylaw.
Wheretheaccusedisdetainedandthetimelimitsarenotobserved,thePublicAttorneyshouldmoveto havethe case dismissed on theground ofdenial oftheright to speedytrial30.
Wherethedelaysandnon-observanceofthetimelimitsariseoutoftheabsenceofanessentialwitness,undersuchconditionsaslaidoutinSec.10,A.M.-12-11-2-SC,thePublicAttorneymaymove fortheprovisionaldismissal ofthecase,with the expressconsent of the accused31.
3.Delayresultingfromextraordinaryremediesagainstinterlocutoryorders;
4.Delayresultingfrompre-trialproceedings;provided,thatthedelaydoes notexceedthirty(30)days;
5.Delayresultingfromordersofinhibition,orproceedingsrelatingtochangeofvenueofcasesortransferfromothercourts;
6.Delayresultingfroma findingof theexistenceofa prejudicial question;and,
7.Delayreasonablyattributabletoanyperiod,nottoexceedthirty(30)days,duringwhichanyproceedingconcerning theaccused isactuallyunderadvisement.
(b)Anyperiodofdelayresultingfrom theabsenceor unavailability oftheaccused oranessentialwitness.
Forpurposesofthissubparagraph,anaccusedoranessentialwitnessshallbeconsideredabsentwhenhis/herwhereaboutsareunknownand,inaddition,he/sheisattemptingtoavoidapprehensionorprosecutionorhis/herwhereaboutscannotbedeterminedbyduediligence.Anaccusedoranessentialwitnessshallbeconsideredunavailablewheneverhis/herwhereaboutsareknownbuthis/herpresencefortrialcannotbeobtainedbyduediligenceorhe/sheresistsappearingatorbeingreturned fortrial.
(c)Anyperiodarisingfromthefactthattheaccusedismentallyincompetentor physicallyunable tostand
trial;
(d)Iftheinformationisdismisseduponmotionoftheprosecutionandthereafterachargeisfiledagainst
theaccusedforthesameoffense,oranyoffenserequiredtobejoinedwiththatoffense,anyperiodofdelay fromthedatethechargewasdismissedtothedatethetimelimitationwouldcommencetorunastothesubsequentchargehadtherebeenno previouscharge.
(e)Areasonableperiodofdelaywhentheaccusedisjoinedfortrialwithaco-accusedoverwhomthecourthasnotacquiredjurisdiction,orastowhomthetimefortrialhasnotrunandnomotionforseverancehasbeen granted.
(f)Anyperiodofdelayresultingfromacontinuancegrantedbyanyjusticeorjudgemotupropriooronmotionoftheaccusedorhis/hercounselorattherequestofthepublicprosecutor,ifthejusticeorjudgegrantedsuchcontinuanceonthebasisofhis/herfindingsthattheendsofjusticeservedbytakingsuchactionoutweighthebestinterestofthepublicandthedefendantinaspeedytrial.NosuchperiodofdelayresultingfromacontinuancegrantedbythecourtinaccordancewiththissubparagraphshallbeexcludableunderthisSec.unlessthecourtsetsforth,intherecordofthecase,eitherorallyorinwriting,itsreasonsforfindingthattheendsofjusticeservedbythegrantingofsuchcontinuanceoutweighthebestinterestsofthepublicandtheaccusedinaspeedytrial.
28Section5, Rule 119, RulesofCourt
29TimeLimitBetweenFilingofInformationandArraignmentandBetweenArraignmentandTrial.-Thearraignmentofanaccusedshallbeheldwithinthirty(30)daysfromthefilingoftheinformation,orfromthedatetheaccusedhasappearedbeforethejustice,judgeorcourtinwhichthechargeispending,whicheverdatelastoccurs.Thereafter,whereapleaofnotguiltyisentered,theaccusedshallhaveatleastfifteen(15)daystopreparefortrial.Trialshallcommencewithinthirty (30)daysfromarraignment asfixedbythecourt. xxx.
30Section9,A.M.12-11-2-SC-Thecaseagainstthedetainedaccusedmaybedismissedonthegroundofdenialoftheright tospeedytrial intheevent of failuretoobservethe abovetime limits.”
31Section10,A.M.12-11-2-SC.(a)Whenthedelaysareduetotheabsenceofanessentialwitnesswhosewhereaboutsareunknownorcannotbedeterminedand,therefore,aresubjecttoexclusionindeterminingif,compliancewiththeprescribedtimelimitswhichcausedthetrialtoexceedonehundredeighty(180)days,thecourtshallprovisionallydismisstheactionwiththeexpressconsentofthedetainedaccused.
Anessentialwitnessisonewhosetestimonydwellsonthepresenceofsomeoralloftheelements ofthe crime andwhose testimonyis indispensableto the conviction oftheaccused32.
TheMotiontoDismissonthegroundthattheaccusedwasnotbroughttotrialwithinthetimelimitshallbefiledbythePublicAttorneypriortothetrialorentry ofapleaofguilty;otherwise,suchfailureto so moveshallconstitute a waiverofthe right ofdismissalunder Section 13,R.A. 8493.
ARTICLE11.DutyofPublicAttorneyWheretheAccusedHasServedtheMinimumImposablePenalty.–Wheretheaccusedhasbeendetainedforaperiodatleastequaltotheminimumofthepenaltyfortheoffensechargedagainsthim,withoutthecourthavingmotuproprioorderedhisrelease,thePublicAttorneyshallfileamotionforthereleaseoftheaccusedonhisownrecognizance33.
CHAPTER IV
LEGALASSISTANCETO CHILDRENINCONFLICTWITHTHELAW(CICL)
ARTICLE1.ScopeofLegalAssistance.–LegalassistancethatthePublicAttorneysshallprovideto qualified CICLsincludes thefollowing:
a)AppearingascounselfortheCICLoninitialcontactorduringcustodialinvestigation,andbeforethe courts,prosecutor’soffice,andotherquasi-judicial bodies;
b)Preparingpleadings,affidavits,swornstatements,andthelike,necessaryinthedefenseoftheCICL;
c)CoordinatingwiththeDepartmentofSocialWelfareandDevelopment,theLocalSocialWelfareOfficersintheLocalGovernmentUnits,andotherconcernedagenciestoprocuretheimmediatereleaseoftheCICLunderdetention,orwhoisotherwisedeprivedofliberty,todemandthepromptsubmissionofdiscernmentreportandinterventionorrehabilitationprogramsfortheCICL,andtopreventanydelayinthediversioncasebeforethebarangaylevel;and,
d)Suchotheraction/srelativeto theforegoing.
ARTICLE2. Legal AssistancetoCICL.
PublicAttorneysshallprovidelegalassistancetoCICLs in the followinginstances:
(b)Whenthedelaysareduetotheabsenceofanessentialwitnesswhosepresencecannotbeobtainedbyduediligencethoughhiswhereaboutsareknown,thecourtshallprovisionallydismisstheactionwiththeexpressconsentofthedetainedaccusedprovided:
(1)thehearinginthecasehasbeenpreviouslytwicepostponedcluetothenon-appearanceoftheessentialwitnessandboththewitnessandtheoffendedparty,iftheyaretwodifferentpersons,havebeengivennoticeofthesettingofthecaseforthirdhearing,whichnoticecontainsawarningthatthecasewouldbedismissed iftheessentialwitnesscontinuestobeabsent;and
(2)thereisproofofserviceofthepertinentnoticesofhearingsorsubpoenasupontheessentialwitnessandtheoffendedpartyattheirlastknownpostalor e-mailaddresses ormobilephonenumbers.
(c)Fortheabovepurpose,thepublicorprivateprosecutorshallfirstpresentduringthetrialtheessentialwitnessorwitnessestothecasebeforeanyoneelse.Anessentialwitnessisonewhosetestimonydwellsonthepresenceofsomeoralloftheelementsofthe crimeandwhose testimonyisindispensable tothe conviction of theaccused.
32Asdefinedin Paragraph (c),Section10of A.M.No. 12-11-2-SC
33Rule114, Section 16, paragraph 3andSection 5,R.A. 10389 (RecognizanceAct of 2012)
a)Whenplacedunderdetentionorotherwisedeprivedofliberty,andisinimmediateneedofcounsel;
b)When placedunder custodialinvestigationwithout theassistanceof counsel;
c)WhenthePublicAttorneyisdesignatedascounseldeoficioforpurposesofarraignment,pre-trial, or promulgation of decisionandsuspension ofsentence;and,
d)Othercases ofsimilarnature.
ARTICLE3. Stagesinthe Rendition ofLegal Assistance. –Section 1. – OnInitialContact.
WhentheCICLisQualifiedforLegalAssistance.–Inthecourseofhis/herregularvisitationinpolicestations,jailsandotherdetentioncenters,oruponreceiptoftheinformationthataCICLhasbeenarrested,orisinthecustodyofthePolice,thePublicAttorneyshalldetermineiftheCICLisrepresentedbycounsel.Ifhe/sheisnotrepresentedbyacounsel,thePublic Attorneyshall,as soon aspossible:
a)ConducttheinitialinterviewoftheCICL,advisinghim/herofhis/herrightsundertheexistinglaws,andexerteffortstoascertainhis/heractualage,throughhis/herparents,guardians orthe socialworkerconcerned;
a.1.InascertainingtheageoftheCICL,thePublicAttorneyshallrequesttheproductionofthebirthcertificate,baptismalcertificate,orotherpertinentdocuments.TheageoftheCICLmayalsobedeterminedfromthetestimoniesofotherpersons,his/herphysicalappearance,his/hermedicalor dentalrecords,andother available relevantevidence.
a.2.IftheageoftheCICLiscontestedpriortothefilingoftheInformationinanyappropriatecourt,thePublicAttorneyshallfileasummaryproceedingcasebeforetheFamilyCourt,orinitsabsence,beforetheappropriateRegional Trial Court.
b)DemandfortheimmediatereleaseoftheCICLandreferhis/hercasetothelocalsocialwelfareofficerfortheconductofaninterventionprogram,incasehe/sheisfifteen(15)yearsofage,orbelowtheageofcriminalresponsibilityatthetimeofthecommissionofthe offense.
InaccordancewithSection58ofRepublicActNo.9344,thePublicAttorneyshallalsodemandtheimmediatereleaseoftheCICLwhoischarged,and/orarrestedforthefollowingacts:
I.Prostitutionunder Article202 oftheRevisedPenalCode;
II.Mendicancyunder PresidentialDecree No. 1563;
III.Sniffingof rugbyunder PresidentialDecree1619;and,
IV.Violation ofcurfewordinancesandother statusoffenses.
c)Ensurethat the CICLis detainedseparatelyfrom adults;
d)AscertainthedueexecutionbytheenforcementofficerofthedutiesimposedunderSections 21 and 22 ofRepublic ActNo. 9344,in the conduct ofthe initial investigation.
Incaseofviolation,thePublicAttorneyshallimmediatelymakerepresentationorfilethe appropriateadministrativeactionbeforethe proper forum.
MaintainachecklisttobeattachedtotheCaseHistory(PAOFormNo.4),forimmediatedeterminationofduecompliancewiththesaidduties,tocurtailtheinfringement ofthe rights oftheCICL;
e)Ensurethat thetaking ofthestatementofthechildshallbeconductedin his/herpresence, thechild’sparents,guardian ornearestrelative,and the localsocialworker.
Intheabsenceofthechild’sparents,guardianornearestrelative,andthelocalsocialwelfareanddevelopmentofficer,thePublicAttorneyshallmakesurethattheinitialinvestigationshallbeconductedinthepresenceofarepresentativeofanon-governmentorganization,religiousgroup,ormemberoftheBarangayCouncilfortheProtection ofChildren(BCPC);
f)Requirethereferral,inpropercases,oftheCICLfordiversionbeforethebarangayunderSections 23 and 24 ofRepublicActNo.9344;and,
g)SecurefromtheDSWDorthelocalsocialwelfareanddevelopmentofficerorcourt-appointedsocialworker,acopyofthecasestudyreporton theCICL,ifoneisavailable.
Section 2.CompliancewithExecutiveOrderNo.633 dated July16, 2007.
ThePublicAttorney,dulynotifiedthereof,shallimmediatelyfilethenecessary“MOTIONFORIMMEDIATERELEASEPURSUANTTOR.A.9344INRELATIONTO
E.O.NO.633”ofchildrenwhoarefifteen(15)yearsofageandbelow,atthetimeofthecommissionofthecrime,whoaredetainedinprisonfacilitiesoftheBureauofJailManagementandPenology,BureauofCorrections,provincialjails,andotherdetentioncells,incasespendingtrialbeforethecourts,orwhileundergoinginquestinvestigationbeforetheProsecutor’sOffice.
Forprisonerswhoaredetainedbyreasonoffinaljudgment,andwhowerefifteen(15)yearsofageandbelowatthetimeofthecommissionofthecrime,thePublicAttorneyconcernedshallfilea“PETITIONFORIMMEDIATERELEASEPURSUANTTOR.A.9344
INRELATIONTOE.O.NO.633”onbehalfofsuchinmatesbeforetheappropriatecourtwhichlast disposed of the case.
Section 3. DuringCustodial Investigation.–
3.1.RepresentationoftheCICL-UponinformationofthetakingofaCICLintocustody,thePublicAttorneyshall,atalltimes,bepresentwhentheCICLisunderinvestigationbytheauthorities,andshallassistintheprotectionofhis/herrightsunderSection2ofRepublicActNo.7438(AnActDefiningCertainRightsofPersonsArrested,DetainedorUnderCustodialInvestigationaswellastheDutiesofArresting,DetainingandInvestigatingOfficers,andProvidingPenaltiesforViolationsThereof).
3.2.RemediesInCaseOfViolation.-Incaseofanyviolationbytheinvestigatingofficerintheconductofthecustodialinvestigation,thePublicAttorneyshallimmediatelymakepropermanifestationbeforetheconcernedofficetowhichthe
erringinvestigatingofficerbelongs,and/orfilethenecessaryappropriatecivil,criminal oradministrativeactionagainstsaidofficer.
Section 4. DuringInquestProceedingsandPreliminaryInvestigation.–
4.1.Claimoftortureorill-treatment.Actiontobetaken.–Duringtheconductofinquestproceedingsorpreliminaryinvestigation,whereanallegedtortureorill-treatmentwasmadeatthetimeofthearrestordetentionoftheCICL,thePublicAttorneyshallimmediatelymakethepropermanifestationandrecommendtheinvestigation ofthe same to theprosecutor.
a.Responsibilities during inquest proceedings or preliminary investigation – Intheeventthatdiversionproceedingsfail,andtheprosecutorconductsinquestproceedingsorpreliminaryinvestigationbecause(a)theCICLdoesnotqualifyfordiversion;(b)whentheCICL,his/herparentsorguardiandonotagreetodiversionasspecifiedunderSections27and28ofRepublicActNo.9344;and
(c)whentheprosecutor,afterconsideringtheassessmentandrecommendationofthesocialworker,determinesthatdiversionisnotappropriatefortheCICL,thePublicAttorney,uponhavingbeeninformedoftheserviceofthesubpoenaandtheaccompanyingdocuments, shall:
I.Obtain copyoftherecords andotherdocumentsrelevant to thecase;
II.Preparethecounter-affidavitandaffidavit/sofhis/herwitness/es,andothersupportingdocuments;
III.ObtainacopyofthebirthcertificateoftheCICLfromtheCivilRegistrarofthelocalitywherethechildwasborn,orthePhilippineStatistics Authority(PSA);
IV.AssistinthepreparationoftheWaiverrequiredunderArticle125oftheRevisedPenalCode,whenthecircumstancessurroundingthecaseandthedefenseoftheCICLjustifytheconductofapreliminaryinvestigation;
V.Makeimmediateandconstantverificationfromthehandlingprosecutorofthestatusofthecase,inorderthatitbegivenpreferentialattentioninits resolution;
VI.Ensuretheobservanceofproceduralrequirementsduringtheinvestigation;and,
VII.AppearascounselfortheCICLduringclarificatoryconference,ifnecessary, to ensure theprotection of hisrights.
4.2.Dismissalofthecaseintheabsenceofcriminalresponsibility.–Whenproper,thePublicAttorneyshallmoveforthedismissalofthecaseforwhichtheCICLisundergoinginquestproceedingsorpreliminaryinvestigation,underSections6and 58 ofRepublicActNo.9344.
Section 5.Diversion.–
5.1.Diversionwhenthecaseisnotyetfiledincourt.–WheretheCICLisabovefifteen(15)yearsofage,andtheimposablepenaltyforthecrimeforwhichtheCICLischargedisnotmorethansix(6)yearsofimprisonment,andthecaseisundergoinginvestigationbeforetheprosecutor’soffice,thePublicAttorneyshall,withtheconsentoftheCICL’sparents/guardian,moveforthereferralofthecasetotheKatarunganPambarangayorthelocalsocialwelfareanddevelopment
officefortheconductofdiversionproceedings.Thesystemofdiversion,asprovidedunderSection23(a)and(b)ofRepublicActNo.9344shallapply,andthePublicAttorneyshallexplainthesametotheCICLandhis/herparents/guardian, in thedialectknownandunderstoodbythem.
5.2.Diversionwhenthecaseisfiledincourt.–WheretheCICLisabovefifteen(15)yearsofage,andhe/sheactedwithdiscernmentandtheimposablepenaltyforthecrimeforwhichhe/sheischargedexceedssix(6)yearsbutnotmorethantwelve
(12)yearsofimprisonment,regardlessofthefineorfinealone,regardlessoftheamount,andbeforearraignment,thePublicAttorneyshallfileamotionbeforethecourtfortheholdingofdiversionproceedings.Inallhearingsconductedbythediversioncommittee,thePublicAttorneyshallbepresenttosafeguardtherightsoftheCICL.
Section 6. Filing oftheComplaint orInformation inCourt.–
6.1.Standard Procedures intheInitial StagesoftheCase. –
InallcriminalcaseswhereaCICLisinvolved,thePublicAttorney,afterexamination oftherecords ofthecase,shall:
a)Ensure theimmediateandpromptassignment ofthe case toa FamilyCourt;
b)Moveforthequashalordismissalofthecase,iftheCICLisexemptfromcriminalresponsibilityunder Sections 6 and 58 of RepublicActNo. 9344;
c)FileamotionforpsychiatricevaluationoftheCICLifatanytime,thePublicAttorneyisconvinced,throughthemanifestationoftheCICL,thathe/sheisnot fit to standtrial;
d)MovefortheimmediatereleaseoftheCICLonrecognizanceto his/herparents or othersuitablepersons;
e)Beforearraignment,fileamotiontoreferthecasefordiversionproceedingswhentheimposablepenaltyoftheoffenseforwhichtheCICLischarged,isimprisonmentofnotmorethantwelve(12)years,regardlessofthe finewhichmaybe imposedorthe finealone,regardless oftheamount;and,
f)Moveforthesettingofthecaseforarraignment,whichshallbeschedulednotlaterthanseven(7)daysfromthe time of the filing of theinformation,inaccordancewithSection27oftherulesonJuvenilesinConflictwiththe Law.
6.2ArraignmentoftheCICL.–WhenthecaseoftheCICLiscalledforarraignment,thePublic Attorneyshall:
a)Manifestfortheconductofthearraignmentonthechambersofthepresidingjudge, orin the courtsalawiththeexclusion ofthepublic;
b)Moveforthesettingofthepre-trialconferenceattheearliestavailabledatepossibleinthecalendarofthecourt,whenapleaofnotguiltyisenteredbytheCICL;and,
c)Invokeallavailablemitigatingcircumstances,whenapleaofguiltywasmadebytheCICLfortheappreciation ofthe court in the imposition ofthepenalty.
6.3.PreTrial.-ThePublicAttorneyshallaffordprotectiontotherightsoftheCICLduringplea-bargaining,andshallmakecertainthatthereisfullcomprehensiononthepartoftheCICLandhisparentsorguardian,oftheconsequencesandresultsofanyagreement or compromise that theymayenterinto.
6.4.Trial.-InallproceedingsandhearingsconductedonthecaseoftheCICL,thePublicAttorneyshallaffordprotectiontotherightsoftheCICL,mostimportantly,hisrighttoprivacyandtodemandconfidentialityofhisrecordsinaccordancewithSection12ofRepublicActNo.8369(AnActEstablishingFamilyCourts,GrantingthemExclusiveOriginalJurisdictionoverChildandFamilyCases,amendingBatasPambansaBilang129,asamended,otherwiseknownastheJudiciaryReorganizationActof1980,AppropriatingFundsThereforandforOtherPurposes).TheRuleonExaminationofaChildWitnessshallalso beobservedbythePublic AttorneywhentheCICLwill testifyin court.
6.5.PromulgationofJudgment.–Duringthepromulgationofjudgment,thePublicAttorneyshall:
a)Movefortheholdingofthepromulgationofjudgmentinthechambersofthepresidingjudge,orinthecourtsalawiththeexclusionofthepublic,andthatno media coverage shallbepermitted;
b)Moveforthepresenceoftheparents/guardianoftheCICLandalocalsocialwelfareanddevelopmentofficeroracourt-appointedsocialworkerduringpromulgation,wheneverpossible;
c)Demandfortheautomaticsuspensionofsentence,orwhenapplicable,forprobation,whenaverdictofconvictionismetedagainsttheCICL,inaccordancewithPresidentialDecreeNo.603(ChildandYouthWelfareCode);and,
d)Whensuspensionofsentenceisnotpossibleandwhileawaitingresolutiononhispetitionforprobation,coordinatewithalocalsocialwelfareanddevelopmentofficer,oracourt-appointedsocialworker,forhiscommitmenttoasuitableyouthrehabilitationcenteroryouthdetentionhome,andtothisend,makeproper representation in courtforthetransferoftheCICL.
6.6.DischargeoftheCICL.–Uponfavorablerecommendationofalocalsocialwelfareanddevelopmentofficerorcourt-appointedsocialworker,orincasesofCICLproceededagainstforviolationofRepublicActNo.9165(ComprehensiveDangerousDrugsActof2002),uponfavorablerecommendationoftheDangerousDrugsBoard,thePublicAttorneyshallfilewiththeFamilyCourtamotiontodismissthecaseandforimmediateissuanceofanOrderofFinalDischargeinfavoroftheCICL,whohasbeenissueddispositionmeasures34.However,iftheCICLfailedtocomplytherewith,orhasnotbeenrehabilitated,andwheneverpracticable,beforetheexecutionofjudgment,thePublicAttorneyshallmakerepresentationforanotheropportunitytobeaffordedtotheCICLtocomplywith the dispositionmeasures, orto undergorehabilitation.
Afterthelapseoftwo(2)yearsfromthedateoftheClosureOrder,ortheFinalDischargeoftheCICL,andthereisnopendingcaseinvolvingmoralturpitudefiledagainsthimduringthesaidperiod,thePublicAttorneyshallmoveforthepermanentsealingofhisrecordsincourt,andinallotherofficesandagenciesthatdealtwiththecase.
34 Thephrase“beforehehasreached18yearsofage”wasremovedbecauseitisasurplusage.ACICLwhohasundergone a disposition programandis discharged presupposesthattheCICL meets/has mettheage requirement.
Section 7. RecordingandReporting ofCases.–
7.1.OfficeLogbookandrecordingsystemforcasesinvolvingCICL.–EachPAODistrictOfficeshallmaintainaseparatelogbookandrecordingsystemforcasesinvolvingCICLs.Thelogbookandrecordingsystemshallserveasadirectoryforthesekindofcaseshandledby theOffice.Atthesametime,itshallalsobeaguide/referenceforPublicAttorneysinacceptingordecliningacaseinvolvingaCICL, dueto conflict ofinterest.
ThePublic Attorneyshall causeto beentered in theLogbook the followingdata:EntryNo.
DateReceived
Name andAddress oftheCICLDate andPlace of Birth
Gender
Name andAddress ofthePlaintiff/ComplainantName andAddress oftheParents/GuardianOffenseCharged
AssistanceGiven/Remarks
7.2 ReportingofCases.–ThePublicAttorneyshallincludeinhis/hermonthlyperformancereport,theterminationofthecaseinvolvingtheCICLatthetimeofthepromulgationofjudgmentorsuspensionofsentence,buttherecordsofthecaseshallremainactiveinaSPECIALFILEforthispurpose,untilthepermanentsealingoftherecordshasbeenordered bythe Court.
CHAPTER V
LEGALASSISTANCETO WOMENANDTHEIR CHILDRENSUBJECTED TOVIOLENCEUNDERREPUBLICACTNO. 9262AND OTHER RELATEDLAWS
ARTICLE1.LegalBasis.-ThePublicAttorney’sOfficeshallextendlegalassistance tovictims ofviolenceagainstwomenandtheirchildrenregardless ofthe indigencyrequirement.
PursuanttotheprovisionsofSections13and35ofRepublicActNo.9262,thewomanorvictimmayavailoftheservicesofPAOinthefilingofanapplication/petitionforprotectionorderand/orcivilactionfordamages.Wheretheapplicantisalreadyrepresentedbyacounseldeparte,PAOmayrepresent theotherparty.
ARTICLE2.LegalAssistancetoWomenandChildrenSubjectedtoAbuse.–TheassistanceofthePublicAttorney’sOfficetowomenandchildrenwhoarevictimsofviolenceunderRANo.9262 shall belimited tothe followingservices:
a)Legal adviceor consultation;
b)Conductofpre-litigation/mediationconferencebetweenthepartiesincasesinvolvingeconomicabuse,withtheexpressconsentofthevictimandwherethereis no imminentdanger to herlifeand limb andthose of her children;
c)Preparationofaffidavitsandotherpertinentpapersnecessarytothefilingofthecomplaintforviolenceagainstwomenorchildren,petition/applicationforprotectionorder and/orcivilactionfordamages;
d)Filingofpetition/applicationforprotectionorder;
e)Representationincourtsincasesofpetitionforprotectionorderand/orcivilactionfor damages.
ARTICLE3.HandlingofCases-Inthehandlingofcasesinvolvingviolencetowomenandtheir children,theFirst Come-First ServedPolicyshall be strictlyobserved.
ARTICLE4.ProcedureinExtendingLegalAssistancetoWomenandChildrenSubjectedtoViolence.
Section1.Walk-In-Clients-ForclientswhoseektheservicesoftheOffice,orwhovisitthesameforconsultation,the followingproceduresshall be observed:
a.WhenavictimvisitstheOfficetoseeklegaladviceforaproblemconcerningviolenceagainstwomenandtheirchildren,he/sheshallbereferredtoaPublicAttorneyforimmediateaction.
Infilingtheapplication/petitionforprotectionorder,thePublicAttorneyshallpreparethepleadings,aswellastheaffidavitsoftheapplicantsandthewitnessesinsupportthereof.
b.Ifthepersondoesnotqualifyforfreelegalassistanceduetoconflictofinterest,he/sheshouldbereferredtootherpublicand/orfreelegalaidorganization,and/orbedulyadvisedto seek the legalassistanceofa counsel ofhis/herownchoice;
c.ThePublicAttorneyshallcausetheentryintheLogbookforCasesofViolenceAgainstWomenandTheir Childrenthe followingdata:
EntryNo.DateReceived
Name Address ofVictim/Complainant
Name Address ofParents/Guardian ofthe victimName Address of Respondent
AssistanceGivenRemarks
EachPAODistrictOfficeshallmaintainaseparatelogbookforcasesinvolvingviolenceagainstwomenandchildren.ThelogbookshallserveasadirectoryforcaseshandledbytheOffice.Atthesametime,itshallalsobeaguide/referenceforPublicAttorneys inacceptingorrefusinga case byreasonofconflict ofinterest;
d.Inanapplication/petitionforprotectionorder,theappearanceandassistanceofPAOshallextend up to thefinalresolution ofthecase; and,
e.IntheeventacriminalInformationisfiledincourtagainsttheaccused,asaresultofPAO’sassistancetothecomplainantattheprosecutor’sOffice,theactiveprosecutionofthe criminalcase in courtshallimmediatelybe turnedover to the public prosecutor.
Section 2. WhereAppearanceofPAO isThroughCourt Appointment.
Whereanapplication/petitionforprotectionorderisfiledincourtthroughtheassistanceofanypersonmentionedinSection9ofRA9262,andthePublicAttorneyisappointedbythecourttoappear fortheapplicant/petitioner, heshallacceptsuchappointment.
Incaseofconflictofinterest,thehandlingPublicAttorney shallwithdrawhisappearance,andrefertheapplicanttootherpublicand/orfreelegalaidorganizationoradvisehim/hertoretaintheservices ofa counsel of his/her ownchoice.
CHAPTERVI
LEGALASSISTANCETO POLICEOFFICERS
PURSUANT TODOJDEPARTMENTCIRCULARNO. 78 DATEDOCTOBER 26, 2009
ARTICLE1.Coverage.-ThisArticleshallapplytomembersofthePhilippineNationalPoliceholdingtheranksofPoliceOfficerI(PO1)toSeniorPoliceOfficer4(SPO4),inallcaseswheretheseofficialsaresuedinconnectionwiththeperformanceoftheirrespectivepolicedutiesandofficialfunctions.Forthis purpose, the provisions onIndigencyTestshall not apply.
ARTICLE2.LegalAssistance.-ThelegalassistancethatthePublicAttorneyshallextendincludes,but is not limited to, thefollowing:
a)Legal advice anddocumentation;
b)Preparation ofwrittenexplanation oranyresponsivepleading;
c)Legalrepresentation injudicial,quasi-judicialandother administrative bodies.ARTICLE3. Procedure inExtendingLegalAssistance.–
Section1.DutiesofaPublicAttorney-Whenapoliceofficerseekslegalassistance,thePublic Attorneyshall:
a)Determinewhethertheofficerissuedinconnectionwiththeperformanceofhis officialduties.
a.1.Ifintheaffirmative,thePublicAttorneyshalldeterminewhichdistrictofficeshallprovidelegalassistanceandconsiderthe following:
a.1.a.Ifthecaseisfiledwithintheterritorialjurisdictionofthesaiddistrict, thePublic Attorneyshall handle thecase.
a.1.b.If otherwise,the same shallbereferredto thedistrictoffice havingterritorial jurisdictionover thesame;
a.2.Ifin the negative,Article 3 ChapterIIhereof shallapply.
b)Requirethe policeofficerto submitthefollowing:
b.1.Proof of hisrank;
b.2.Copyofthe Complaint,Information, orCharge Sheetandsuchotherdocumentsin connectiontherewith;and
b.3.Evidencein supportof hisdefense.
CHAPTERVII
LEGALASSISTANCETO DELINQUENTCREDITCARDHOLDERS
ARTICLE1. LegalAssistance.–Thelegalassistancethat the Public Attorneysshall extendincludes,but is not limited to, thefollowing:
a)Legal advice anddocumentation;
b)Preparation ofwrittenexplanation oranyresponsivepleading;and,
c)Legalrepresentation injudicial,quasi-judicialandother administrative bodies.
ARTICLE2.ProvisionalLegalAssistance-PendingqualificationontheMeritandIndigencyTests,PublicAttorneysshallprovidelegalassistancetocreditcardholdersinaccordancewithArticle4, ChapterIIofthis Manual.
ARTICLE3. Stagesinthe Rendition ofLegal Assistance.–Section 1.Where Creditor has sent a FormalDemandforPayment
1.DutiesofthePublicAttorney-Whenacreditcardholderseekslegaladviceafterreceivinga demandletterto pay, thepublic attorneyshall:
a)Interviewthecreditcardholderregardinghis/herqualificationtoavailofthe services ofthePAOandinstructhim/herto provideproofofindigency;
b)Requirethecreditcardholdertopresentacopyofthecreditcardagreement,thestatementsofaccount/billingstatementandotherpertinentdocuments,suchasreceipts,banktransfers orotherdocumentsevidencingpayment;
c)ThePublicAttorneyshallacquainthimself/herselfwiththespecificsofthecreditcardobligation of the holder;suchas:
1.The creditlimitappliedforandamountgranted tothe client;
2.The application ofcreditcard extension,ifany;
3.Thetotalcreditcardreceivables oramountdue;
4.The “Minimum AmountDue”or“MinimumPayment Required;”
5.Thetotalfinance chargesandinterestsapplied to the account;
6.Thetotalamount ofpurchases oftheclient usingthe creditcard;
7.Thedemandletter, ifany;
8.The amountpaidbytheclient; and,
9.Suchotherpertinent informationregardingtheobligation.
d)Consideranddiscusswiththeholderpossiblemeansandtermsofpaymentor settlement ofthe creditcardobligation;
e)Whereadvisable,draft,signandserveareplytothecreditor,andconsiderapplicablejurisprudence,provisionsoftheCivilCode,RepublicActNo.3765(AnActtoRequiretheDisclosureofFinanceChargesinConnectionwithExtensionofCredit),suchotherapplicablelawsandgovernmentpolicies.ThePublicAttorneyshall,asfaraspracticable,incorporateinthereplyafairandfeasibleoffer/proposalforsettlement;
f)Wherethereisanagreementbetweenthecreditcardissuerandtheholderregardingthesettlementoftheobligation,discusswiththeholder,thetermsthereof,anditseffects/consequences;and,
g)Wheretheholderisinsolvent,saidfactanditslegaleffectsshallberaisedin thereply.
2.LatestJurisprudenceasGuide-Ingivingadvice,draftingofreplyanddiscussingthepracticability andtermsoftheproposal/offerofsettlement,thePublicAttorneyshouldbeguidedby theprinciplesenunciatedby thelatestjurisprudenceasregardsexcessiveandunconscionable interestrates.
Section 2.Whena case for collection isalreadyfiled inCourt. –
1.ForclaimsnotinexcessofPhp200,000.0035andtheRulesofProcedureforSmallClaimsisapplicable.–ThePublicAttorneyshallassistthecreditcardholderinmakingareplyorthedraftingoftheVerifiedAnswer,ensuringthatallthenecessarydocumentsare attachedthereto,andthatsaidresponsive pleadingis seasonablyfiled.
2.WhentheordinaryRulesofProcedureApply.–ThePublicAttorneyshallprepareandfilethenecessaryAnswertothecomplaint.Whengroundsexist,Counterclaimsshallbepleadedintheanswer.ThePublicAttorneyshall,likewise,includeintheCounterclaim,theallowableclaimsforAttorney’sFeespursuanttothePAOLaw(R.A.9406);and,
3.Whenthecreditcardholderisinsolvent.–Ineverycaseofcollectionfiledagainstthecreditcardholderwhoisinsolvent,thesaidfactshallberaisedasadefenseandproofof suchinsolvencyshallbe attachedandmade anintegralpart oftheAnswer.
Section3.WhentheCreditCardHolderisCriminallyProsecuted.–WhenacomplaintisfiledbeforetheProsecutor’sOffice,oranInformationisfiledinCourtagainstacreditcardholderforacreditcardrelatedoffense,theprovisionsoftheSpeedyTrialActshallbeobserved.
CHAPTERVIII
STANDARDOFFICE PROCEDURESTO BEOBSERVED INTHESERVICE OFSUMMONS
UPON ADVERSEPARTIESPURSUANT TOA.M.NO.11-10-03-OAND R.A. 9406
ARTICLE 1
PURPOSEANDAPPLICABILITY
Section1.Purpose.-ThisMemorandumCircular35aisissuedforthepurposeofsettingforthanddefiningtheguidelinesandprocedurestobeobservedbythePublicAttorney’sOfficepersonnelintheserviceofsummonsupontheadversepartyin civil cases filed by public attorneys inbehalfofqualifiedPAOclients,inlightoftheEnBancResolutionoftheSupremeCourtinAdministrativeMatterNo.11-10-03-OinrelationtoSec.6ofR.A.9406(PAOLaw)andSection3Rule14oftheRulesofCourt,totheendthattheconstitutionalmandatethatnopersonshallbedeniedaccesstothe courtsbyreason ofpovertybe effected, fullyserved and realized.
35Section2ofthe2016RevisedRulesof Procedurefor SmallClaimsCases, effectiveFebruary1, 2016
35aMemorandumCircularNo. 001 Seriesof2014, effectiveMay22, 2014
Section2.Applicability.–ThisMemorandumCircularshallonlybeapplicabletocivilcasesinstitutedbythePublicAttorney’sOfficeforandinbehalfofqualifiedPAOClientswhocannotafford to paythe sheriff’sexpenses.
ARTICLE 2DEFINITIONOFTERMS
Section1.Definitionofterms.–ForthepurposesofthisMemorandumCircular,thefollowingtermsshallmean:
a.Summons–Thewritbywhichadefendantissummoned.Anoticetothepersonthatanactionagainsthimhasbegun,andthatjudgmentwillbetakenagainsthimifhefailstoanswerwithina given date36;
b.FilingAttorney–The public attorneywhomakes,signsandfilesthe complaint;
c.ResidentAttorney–Thepublicattorneywhoispermanentlyassignedtoappearbeforeandhandle all thecasesinvolvingqualifiedPAO clientsbeforea particular branch ofthe court;
d.Territoriallimitsofthedistrictorsub-districtoffice–Thegeographiccoverageofadistrictorsub-districtoffice;
e.Reasonabletime–“somuchtimeasisnecessaryunderthecircumstancesforareasonablyprudentanddiligentmantodo,conveniently,whatthecontractorduty requiresthatshouldbedone,havingaregardforthe rightsandpossibilityofloss, ifany, to the other party”37;
f.Personalserviceondefendant–actualdeliveryortenderofsummonstothedefendantpersonally38;
g.Residence–theterms“dwellinghouse”or“residence”aregenerallyheldtorefertothetimeofservice;hence,itisnotsufficient“toleaveacopyatdefendant’sformerdwellinghouse,residenceorplaceofabode,asthecasemaybe,afterhisremovaltherefrom.Theyrefertotheplacewherethepersonnamedinthesummonsislivingatthetimewhentheserviceismade,eventhough hemaytemporarilybeout ofthecountryat thetime39;
h.Officeorregularplaceofbusiness–refertotheofficeorplaceofbusinessofthedefendantatthetimeofservice40;
i.Apersonofsuitableageanddiscretion–onewhohasattainedtheageoffulllegalcapacity(18yearsold)andisconsideredtohaveenoughdiscernmenttounderstandtheimportanceofasummonsandhastheabilitytomakedecisionsrepresentingaresponsiblechoiceandunderstandswhatislawful,rightorwise.SuchpersonmustknowhowtoreadandunderstandEnglishtocomprehendtheimportofthesummons,andfullyrealizetheneedtodeliverthesummonsandcomplainttothedefendantattheearliestpossibletimeforthepersontotakeappropriateaction,andmusthavethe“relationofconfidence”tothedefendant,ensuringthat
36PhilippineLegalEncyclopedia,JoseAgatonR.Sibal,CentralLawbookPublishingCompanyIncorporated,QuezonCity,Philippines,1986, page1017
37 Ma.ImeldaManotocvs.Hon.CourtofAppealsandAgapitaTrajano,G.R.No.130974,August16,2006,citingFarEasternRealtyInvestment,Inc.v. CA,G.R.No. L-36549, October 5,1988,166SCRA256
38Page9, A Handbookfor Sheriffs,PhilippineJudicialAcademy, October 2003
39Page10, Id
40Ibid
the latterwouldreceive or atleast benotified of the receipt ofthesummons41;
j.Domesticprivatejuridicalentity–acorporation,partnershiporassociationorganizedunderthe laws ofthePhilippines;
k.Publiccorporations–thoseformedororganizedforthegovernmentofaportionofthestate42;and,
l.Foreignprivatejuridicalentity–oneformed,organizedorexistingunderanylawsotherthanthoseofthePhilippinesandwhoselawsallowFilipinocitizensandcorporationstodobusinessin its own countryorstate43andwhichhastransactedbusinessin thePhilippines.
ARTICLE 3
DUTIES OFTHE PUBLICATTORNEY
Section 1. Duties ofthefilingPublicAttorney