THE COMPONENTS OF THE PROGRAM

Investigation must include the latest of what is available locally in forensic capabilities. These shall include DNA analysts, forensic technicians, professional interviewers, crime scene operatives and crime lab technicians.

Initially, the coverage shall be crimes where the suspects are agents of government. But, eventually to truly serve the interest of justice, this coverage will be accordingly expanded.

Prosecution will be under strict timetables; i.e., preliminary investigations must not exceed 60 days with another 30 days as possible extensions as merited. Prosecutors are enjoined to have successive hearing dates and to avoid any and all forms of postponement. Strict monitoring of the cases shall be done by the department.

Public Attorneys Office shall be made available not only to the victims but also to the suspects. Public Attorney lawyers will be specially trained to handle such cases. Observing fairly the rules on criminal procedures, assistance shall be made available to all concerned so as not to create an impression that there are double standards.

Witness Protection will be made readily available at the least inconvenience to those affected. Public trust is essential if we are to win this fight and a sure way of getting public trust is to have a viable and effective Witness Protection and Benefit Program. The capabilities of the program shall be enhanced effective immediately.

The Investigation component shall be handled by the National Bureau of Investigation Task Force under Director Nestor Mantaring. The Prosecution component shall be handled by the National Prosecution Service Task Force under Chief State Prosecutor Jovencito Zuño. The Legal Assistance shall be handled by the Public Assistance Office under Chief Public Attorney Presida Rueda-Acosta. The Witness Protection Program and Benefit Program shall be under Director Leo Dacera.