There was a time when the logistical requirements of Cebu's dispute resolution and justice system left little to be desired. I was sworn into the bar during that era. The regional trial courts, then known as Courts of First Instance, and the city courts were easily accessible even for those without cars. Parking space was ample for those who owned vehicles.
The Original Court Facilities
The CFI branches were located on parts of the ground and second floors of the Capitol building, in the annex building at the back, and in quonset huts, all within the Capitol compound. The city courts were housed in the old City Hall and the nearby Yutivo and Gotiaoco buildings. A Palace of Justice was later built where the annex building once stood, largely through the efforts of then Justice Secretary Franklin Drilon. All courts were relocated to the new edifice, along with the fiscals' and public attorneys' offices. Gathering most government agencies involved in justice under one roof was practical.
The Bohol Earthquake and Its Aftermath
Then the Bohol earthquake struck, causing extensive damage to several buildings in metropolitan Cebu. The Palace of Justice was declared unsafe. Courts were evacuated to hastily assembled tents for trials. Could the Palace have been rehabilitated through retrofitting? The question was never answered. Meanwhile, the provincial government, as landowner, quickly took over the property.
The courts moved again, this time to Qimonda in the North Reclamation Area. The building was deemed safe, but the Bogo earthquake revealed the truth: it sustained cracks. Courts had to be evacuated once more. Meanwhile, the Palace of Justice, unretrofitted, unrehabilitated, and unoccupied, stood undamaged.
Current Conditions at Eastland
I have been to Eastland, the courts' new home, only three times since I am semi-retired and handle only a few select cases. Each visit left me with a heavy heart. From the outside, the building looked regal, but inside, I found not a palace but a cramped and overcrowded home for overworked people.
Lady Justice's odyssey must end. Governor Pam Baricuatro, will you be kinder and make the Palace of Justice available again?
