A push to create separate municipal trial courts for the municipalities of Dauis and Panglao in Bohol province has gained momentum, with lawmakers and local officials backing the plan.
Rep. Edgar M. Chatto of the First District of Bohol filed House Bill No. 10737 on Aug. 8, which seeks to create two additional branches of the municipal trial courts in the Seventh Judicial Region.
The proposed courts would be stationed in Dauis and Panglao.
The bill aims to address the increasing population and commercial transactions in Panglao Island, a prime tourism destination in the province.
The existing Municipal Circuit Trial Court, Branch 14, currently serves both municipalities.
LGU officials have expressed support for the measure.
The Sangguniang Bayan of Dauis passed Resolution No. 163-2024 on Aug. 12, requesting the enactment of legislation to create separate municipal trial courts.
The Sangguniang Bayan of Panglao followed suit on Aug. 21, adopting Resolution No. 306, Series of 2024.
Lawmakers and local officials plan to forward a letter to Sen. Risa N. Hontiveros to sponsor a Senate bill for the measure.