DOJ hails SC ruling upholding stricter evidence standards in preliminary probes

The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday welcomed a ruling by the Supreme Court (SC) affirming the validity of a department circular that raised the standard of evidence required in preliminary investigations and inquest proceedings

In a statement, the DOJ said the high court upheld Department Circular No. 015, series of 2024, which increased the threshold of proof from mere probable cause to prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction.

According to the department, the rule change was introduced to address persistent problems in the criminal justice system, including the filing of weak or poorly supported cases that burden courts, prolong trials, and undermine public confidence in prosecutions.

Under the revised standard, prosecutors must establish prima facie evidence that not only indicates probable cause but also demonstrates a reasonable likelihood of securing a conviction before a case is filed in court.

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida hailed the SC’s decision, saying it affirms the department’s efforts to strengthen the country’s prosecution system.

“The Supreme Court's affirmation validates our bold step toward a more discerning and effective prosecution system. This is not about making justice harder to achieve. It’s about making it fairer, faster, and more reliable for all Filipinos,” Vida said.

The DOJ said the policy aims to ensure that only meritorious criminal cases move forward to trial, which could help improve the quality of prosecutions and potentially increase conviction rates.

It added that the stricter standard is also expected to ease court congestion, protect the rights of the accused, and reinforce the constitutional presumption of innocence.

Following the ruling, the DOJ said it will continue implementing the guidelines nationwide while providing additional training for prosecutors and coordinating with justice sector stakeholders to further improve investigative and prosecutorial processes.