Ex-Palawan governors trial moved to Quezon City

MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered the trial of former Palawan governor Joel Reyes, who is accused of murdering environmentalist and broadcaster Gerry Ortega in 2011, transferred from Palawan to Quezon City.

In a notice dated Dec. 4, 2023, the SC’s Second Division approved Reyes’ motion to transfer the venue from the Puerto Princesa Regional Trial Court Branch 52 to any RTC in Metro Manila.

Reyes cited the limited personnel and resources to secure his attendance during the trial, saying he is a prominent political figure and a high-risk individual.

The SC noted that the Puerto Princesa judge did not object to Reyes’ request.

It added that transferring the venue “is imperative to relieve accused Reyes’ fear of miscarriage of justice considering that the transfer will not prejudice the substantial rights of the parties to a fair, impartial and speedy trial.”

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines said there is no justifiable reason to transfer the case and asked the Office of the Solicitor General to appeal the SC’s decision “in the interest of a fair and speedy trial.”

Ortega’s widow filed charges against Reyes, Coron mayor Mario Reyes, former administrator Romeo Serratubias and seven others in connection with the murder.