CEBU, Philippines - Naga City Mayor Valdemar Chiong has turnover a P12-million two-storey Palace of Justice building to the city's Municipal Trial Court in Cities Judge Veronico Sardoncillo after two years of construction.
Chiong led the blessing and inauguration of the building, constructed within two years and realized through a P5-million fund support from the Supreme Court, with the city government's initial counterpart fund of P5.5 million.
The city government's fund allocation may reach a total of P7 million because it will still install office furnishings and equipment, such as furniture and air-conditioners.
Sardoncillo said he was thankful to the city government for its support to the MTCC's objective of ensuring swift and prompt administration of justice.
Cebu City Regional Trial Court Executive Judge Soliver Peras lauded the Chiong's administration for the new building for the MTCC, while Naga City Prosecutor Napoleon Alburo praised the mayor for the realization of the project, which will serve as the latter's "legacy' to the Nagahanons.
Chiong, for his part, said he wanted the city government to support the people in the judiciary in rendering good service to the public. "The quest for truth and justice applies to all," he added.
Apart from the MTCC and the City Prosecutors Office, the Parole and Probation Office, headed by Laura Llena, is also holding office at the second floor of the new building. —RAE (FREEMAN)