BATAS PAMBANSA Blg. 129 Section 9. Jurisdiction.

– The Court of Appeals shall Exercise:

AN ACT REORGANIZING THE JUDICIARY, APPROPRIATING 1. Original jurisdiction to issue writs

FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES of mandamus, prohibition, certiorari, habeas corpus, and quo
warranto,and auxiliary writs or processes, whether or not in aid
of its appellate jurisdiction;
Republic Act No. 7691 March 25, 1994

2. Exclusive original jurisdiction over actions for annulment of

AN ACT EXPANDING THE JURISDICTION OF THE
judgements of Regional Trial Courts; and
METROPOLITAN TRIAL COURTS, MUNICIPAL TRIAL COURTS,
AND MUNICIPAL CIRCUIT TRIAL COURTS, AMENDING FOR
THE PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA, BLG. 129, OTHERWISE 3. Exclusive appellate jurisdiction over all final judgements,
KNOWN AS THE "JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF resolutions, orders or awards of Regional Trial Courts and
1980" quasi-judicial agencies, instrumentalities, boards or
commission, including the Securities and Exchange
Commission, the Social Security Commission, the Employees
PRELIMINARY CHAPTER
Compensation Commission and the Civil Service Commission,
Except those falling within the appellate jurisdiction of the
Section 1. Title. – This Act shall be known as "The Judiciary Supreme Court in accordance with the Constitution, the Labor
Reorganization Act of 1980." Code of the Philippines under Presidential Decree No. 442, as
amended, the provisions of this Act, and of subparagraph (1)
of the third paragraph and subparagraph 4 of the fourth
Section 2. Scope. – The reorganization herein provided shall paragraph of Section 17 of the Judiciary Act of 1948.
include the Court of Appeals, the Court of First Instance, the Circuit
Criminal Courts, the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts, the
Courts of Agrarian Relations, the City Courts, the Municipal Courts, The Court of Appeals shall have the power to try cases and conduct
and the Municipal Circuit Courts. hearings, receive evidence and perform any and all acts necessary
to resolve factual issues raised in cases falling within its original and
appellate jurisdiction, including the power to grant and conduct new
CHAPTER I trials or Appeals must be continuous and must be completed within
COURT OF APPEALS three (3) months, unless extended by the Chief Justice. (as
amended by R.A. No. 7902.)
Section 3. Organization. – There is hereby created a Court of
Appeals which consists of a Presiding Justice and fifty Associate Section 10. Place of holding sessions. – The Court of Appeals shall
Justice who shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines. have its permanent station in the City of Manila. Whenever
The Presiding Justice shall be so designated in his appointment, demanded by public interest, the Supreme Court, upon its own
and the Associate Justice shall have precedence according to the initiative or upon recommendation of the Presiding Justice, may
dates of their respective appointments, or when the appointments of authorize a division of the Court to hold sessions outside Manila,
two or more of them shall bear the same date, according to the periodically, or for such periods and at such places as the Supreme
order in which their appointments were issued by the President. Any Court may determine, for the purpose of hearing and deciding
member who is reappointed to the Court after rendering service in cases.
any other position in the government shall retain the precedence to
which he was entitled under his original appointment, and his
service in the Court shall, for all intents and purposes, be Section 11. Quorum – A majority of the actual members of the
considered as continuous and uninterrupted. (as amended by Exec. Court shall constitute a quorum for its session en banc. Three
Order No. 33,, July 28, 1986.) members shall constitute a quorum for the session of a division.
The unanimous vote of the three members of a division shall be
necessary for the pronouncement of a decision of final resolution,
Section 4. Exercise of powers and functions. – The Court Appeals which shall be reached in consultation before the writing of the
shall exercise its powers, functions, and duties, through seventeen opinion by any members of the division. In the event that the three
(17) divisions, each composed of three (3) members. The Court members do not reach a unanimous vote, the Presiding Justice
may sit en banc only for the purpose of exercising administrative, shall request the Raffle Committee of the Court for the designation
ceremonial, or other non-adjudicatory functions. (as amended of two additional Justice to sit temporarily with them, forming a
by Exec. Order No. 33,.) special division of five members and the concurrence of a majority
of such division shall be necessary for the pronouncement of a
Section 5. Succession to Office of Presiding Justice. – In case of a decision or final resolution. The designation of such additional
vacancy in the absence of inability to perform the powers, functions, Justice shall be made strictly by raffle.
and duties of his office, the associate Justice who is first in
precedence shall perform his powers, functions, and duties until A month for reconsideration of its decision or final resolution shall
such disability is removed, or another Presiding Justice is appointed be resolved by the Court within ninety (90) days from the time it is
and has qualified. submitted for resolution, and no second motion for reconsideration
from the same party shall be entertainment. (as amended by Exec.
Section 6. Who presides over session of a division. – If the Order No. 33, July 28, 1986.)
Presiding Justice is present in any session of a division of the Court,
he shall preside. In his absence, the Associate Justice attending Section 12. Internal Rules. – The court en banc is authorized to
such session who has precedence shall preside. promulgate rules or orders governing the constitution of the
divisions and the assignment of Appellate Justices thereto, the
Section 7. Qualifications. – The Presiding Justice and the distribution of cases, and other matters pertaining to the operations
Associate Justice shall have the same qualifications as those of the Court of its divisions. Copies of such rules and orders shall be
provided in Constitution for Justice of the Supreme Court. furnished by the Supreme Court, which rules and orders shall be
effective fifteen (15) days after receipt thereof, unless directed
otherwise by the Supreme Court.
Section 8. Grouping of Divisions. – (Expressly repealed by Section
4, Exec. Order No. 33, July 28, 1986.)
 CHAPTER II In case of transfer or redistribution of the provinces, subprovinces,
REGIONAL TRIAL COURTS cities or municipalities comprising the regions established by law of
purposes of the administrative field organization of the various
departments and agencies of the government, the composition of
Section 13. Creation of Regional Trial Courts. – There are hereby
the judicial regions herein constituted shall be deemed modified
created thirteen (13) Regional Trial Courts, one for each of the
accordingly.
following judicial regions:

Section 14. Regional Trial Courts.

The First Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Abra,
Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Mountain Province,
and Pangasinan, and cities of Baguio, Dagupan, Laog and San (a) Fifty-seven Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned
Carlos; for the First Judicial Region. There shall be.

The Second Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Batanes, Two branches (Branches III ans II) for the province of
Cagayan, Ifugao, Kalinga-Apayao, Nueva Viscaya, and Quirino; Abra, with seats at Bangued;

The Third Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Bataan, Eight branches (Branches III to X) for the province of
Bulacan (except the municipality of valenzuela), Nueva Ecija, Benguet and the city of Baguio, Branches III to VII with
Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales, and the cities of Angeles, seats at Baguio City, and Branches VIII to X at La
Cabanatuan, Olongapo, Palayan and San Jose; Trinidad;

The National Capital Judicial Region, consisting of the cities of Nine branches (Branches XI to XIX) for the province of
Manila, Quezon, Pasay, Caloocan and Mandaluyong, and the Ilocos Norte and the city of Laoag, Branches XI to XVI
municipalities of Navotas, Malabon, San Juan, Makati, Pasig, with seats at Laoag City, Branches XVII and XVIII at
Pateros, Taguig, Marikina, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, and Batac, and Branch XIX at Bangui;
Valenzuela;
Six branches (Braches XX to XXV) for the province of
The Fourth Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Ilocos Sur, Branches XX and XXI with seats at Vigan,
Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Marinduque, Mindoro Occidental, Branch XXII at Narvacan, Branch XXIII at Candon,
Mindoro Oriental, Palawan, Quezon, Rizal (except the cities and Branch XXIV at Cabugao, and Branch XXV at Tagudin;
municipalities embraced within the National Capital Judicial
Region0, Romblon, and Aurora, and the cities of Batangas, Cavite,
Nine branches (Branches XXVI to XXXIV) for the province
Lipa, Lucena, Puerto Princessa, San Pablo, Tagaytay, and Trece
of La Union, Branches XXVI to XXX with seats at San
Martires;
Fernando, Branches XXXI and XXXII at Agoo, Branch
XXXIII at Bauang, and Branch XXXIV at Balaoan;
The Fifth Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Albay,
Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Catanduanes, Masbate, and
Two branches (Branches XXXV and XXXVI) for the
Sorsogon, and the cities of Legaspi, Naga and Iriga;
province of Mountain province, with seats at Bontoc; and

The Sixth Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Aklan,

Twenty-one branches (Branches XXXVII to LVII) for the
Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, La Calota, Roxas, San Carlos, and Silay, and
province of Pangasinan and the citie sof dagupan and
the subprovince of Guimaras;
san Carlos, Branches XXXVII to XXXIX with seats at
Lingayen, Branches XL to XLIV at dagupan, Branches
The Seventh Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Bohol, XLV to XLIX at Urdaneta, Branch L at Villasis, Branches
Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, and the cities of Bais, Canlaon, LI and LII at Tayug, Branch LIII at Rosalaes, Branches
Cebu, Danao, Dumaguete, Lapu-lapu, Mandaue, Tagbilaran, and LIV and LV at Alaminos, and Branch LVI and LVII at san
Toledo, Carlos.

The Eighth Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces or Eastern (b) Thirty-two Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned for
Samar, Leyte, Northern, Samar, Southern Leyte, Ormoc, and the Second Judicial region. There shall be:
Tacloban:
Twelve branches (Branches I to XII) for the province of
The Ninth Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Basilan, Cagayan, Branches I to V with seats at Tuguegarao,
Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga del Sur, and the cities of Dapitan, Branches VI to X at Aparri, Branch XI at Tuao, and
Dipolog, Pagadian, and Zamboanga; Branch XII at Sanchez Mira;

The Tenth Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Agusan One branch (Branch XIII) for the province of Batanes, with
del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Misamis seat at Basco;
Occidental, Misamis Oriental, and Surigao del Norte, and the cities
of Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Gingoog, Ozamis, Oroquieta, Surigao,
Two branches (Branches XIV and XV) for the province of
and Tangub;
Ifugao, Branch XIV with seat at Lagawe, and Branch XV
at Potia;
The Eleventh Judicial Region, consistingnof the provinces of Davao
del Norte, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato, and
Nine branches (Branches XVI to XXIV) for the province of
Surigao del Sur, and the cities of Davao, and General Santos; and
Isabela, Branches XVI to XVIII with seats at Ilagan,
Branches XIX and XX at cauayan, Branch XXI at
The Twelfth Judicial Region, consisting of the provinces of Lanao Santiago, Branch XXII at Cabagan, Branch XXIII at
del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Roxas, and Branch XXIV at Echague;
Kudarat, and the cities of Cotabato, Iligan, and Marawi.
 Two branches (Branches XXV and XXVI) for the province Three branches (Branches 75, 171 and 172) for the
of kalinga-Apayao, Branch XXV with seat at Tabuk, and municipality of Valenzuela, with seats thereat. (As
Branch XXVI at Luna; amended by EO No. 33, July 30, 1986.)

Four branches (Branches XXVII to XXX) for the province (e) Eighty-two Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned
of Nueva Vizcaya, Branches XXVII to XXIX with seats at for the Fourth Judicial Region. There shall be:
Bayombong, and Branch XXX at Bambang;
Fourteen branches (Branches I to XIV) for the province of
Two branches (Branches XXXI and XXXII) for the Batangas and the cities of Lipa and Batangas, Branches I
province of Quirino, with seats at Cabarroguis. to VI with seats at Batangas City, Branch V at Lemery,
Branches VI to VIII at Tanuan, Branches IX to XI at
Balayan, Branches XII and XIII at Lipa, and Branch XIV at
(c) Seventy-five Regional Trial judges shall be commissioned
Nasugbu;
for the Third Judicial Region. There shall be:

Nine branches (Branches XV to XXIII) for the province of

Five branches (Branches I to V) for the province of
Cavite and the cities of Cavite, Tagaytay and Trece
Bataan, Branches I to III with seats at Balanga, Branch IV
Matires, Branch XV with seat at Naic, Branches XVII at
at Mariveles, and Branch V at Dinalupihan;
Cavite City, Branch XVIII at Tagayatay City, Branch XIX
at Bacoor, Branches XX to XXII at Imus, and Branch XXIII
Seventeen branches (Branches VI to XXII) for the at Trece Martires;
province of Bulacan (except the municipality of
Valuenzuela), with seats at Malolos;
Fourteen branches (Branches XXIV to XXXVII) for the
province of Laguna and the city of San Pablo, Branches
Eighteen branches (Branches XXIII to XL) for the XXVIII at Sta. Cruz, Branches XXIX to XXXII at San Pable
province of Nueva Ecija and the cities of Cabanatuan, City, Branch XXXIII at Siniloan, and Branches XXXIV to
San Jose and Palayan, Branches XXIII to XXX with seats XXXVI at Calamba;
at Cabanatuan City, Branches XXXI to XXXIII at Guimba,
Branches XXXIV to XXXVI at Gapan, Branch XXXVII at
One branch (Branch XXXVIII) for the province of
Sto. Domingo, Branches XXXVIII and XXXIX at San Jose,
Marinduque, with seat at Boac;
and Branch XL at Palayan.

Five branches (Branches XXXIX to XLIII) for the province

Twenty-two branches (Branches XLI to LXII) for the
of Mindoro Oriental, Branches XXXIX to XL with seats at
province of Pampanga and the city of Angeles, Branches
Calapan, Branches XLI and XLII at Pinamalayan, and
XLI to XLVIII with seats at San Fernando, Branches XLIX
Branch XLII at Roxas;
to LIII at Guagua, Branches LIV and LV at Macabebe,
and Branches LVI to LXII at Angeles City;
Three branches (Branches XLVII to XLVI) for the province
of Mindoro Occidental, Branch XLIV with seat at
Six branches (Branches LXIII to LXVIII) for the province of
Mamburao, and Branches XLV and XLVI at San Jose;
Tarlac, Branches LXVI at Capas, Branch LXVII at
Paniqui, and Branch LXVIII at Camiling; and
Six branches (Branches XLVII to LII) for the province of
Palawan and the city of Puerto Princesa, with seats at
Seven branches (Branches LXIX to LXXV) for the
Puerto Princesa City;
province of Zambales and the city of Olongapo, Branches
LXIX to LXXI with seats at Iba and Branches LXXII to
LXXV at Olongapo City Thirteen branches (Branches LIII to LXV) for the province
of Quezon and the city of Lucena, Branches LIII to LX
with seats at Lucena City, Branches LXI and LXII at
(d) One hundred seventy-two (172) Regional Trial Judges shall
Gumaca, Branch LXIII at Calauag, Branch LXIV at
be commissioned for the National Capital Judicial Region.
Mauban, and Branch LXV at Infanta;
There shall be:

One branch (Branch LXVI) for the province of Aurora, with

Fifty-five branches (Branches 1 to 55) for the City of
seat at Baler;
Manila, with seats thereat;

Fourteen branches (Branches LXVII to LXXX) for the

Thirty-two branches (Branches 76 to 107) for Quezon
province of Rizal except the cities and municipalities
City, with seats thereat;
embraced within the National Capital Judicial Region,
Branches LXVII to LXX with seats at Binangonan,
Twelve branches (Branches 108 to 119) for Pasay City, Branches LXXI to LXXIV at Antipolo, Branches LXXV to
with seats thereat; LXXVII at San Mateo, and Branches LXXVIII to LXXX at
Morong; and
Twelve branches (Branches 120 to 131) for Caloocan
City, with seats thereat; Two branches (Branches LXXXI and LXXXII) for the
province of Romblon, Branch LXXXI with seat at
Romblon, and Branch LXXXII at Odiongan.
Fifty-eight branches (Branches 56 to 74 and 132 to 170)
for the Municipalities of Navotas, Malabon, San Juan,
Madaluyong, Makati, Pasig, Pateros, Taguig, Marikina, (f) Fifty-five Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned for
Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Muntinlupa; Branches 67 to the Fifth Judicial Region. There shall be:
71 and 151 to 168 at Pasig; and Branches 72 to 74, 169
and 170 at Malabon; and
Eighteen branches (Branches I to XVIII) for the province
of Albay and the city of Legaspi, Branches I to X with
 seats at Legaspi City, Branches XI to XIV at Ligao, and One branch (Branch XLVI) for the province of Siquijor,
Branches XV to XVIII at Tabaco; with seat at Larena.

Nineteen branches (Branches XIX to XXXVII) for the (i) Thirty-three Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned
province of Camarines Sur and the cities of Naga and for the Eighth Judicial Region. There shall be:
Iriga, Branches XIX to XXVIII with seats at Naga City,
Branch XXIX at Libmanan, Branch XXX at Tigaon,
Five branches (Branches I to V) for the province of
Braches XXXI to XXXIII at Pili, and Branches XXXIV to
Eastern Samar, Branches I and II with seats at Borongan,
XXXVII at Iriga City;
Branch III at Guiuan, Branch IV at Dolores, and Branch V
at Oras;
Four branches (Branches XXXVIII to XLII) for the
province of Camarines Norte, with seat at Daet;
Thirteen branches (Branches VI to XVIII) for the province
of Leyte, the sub-province of Biliran, and the cities of
Two branches (Branches XLII and XLII) for the province Ormoc and Tacloban, Branches VI and IX with seats at
of Catanduanes, with seats at Virac; Tacloban City, Branch X at Abuyog, Branch XI at
Calubian, Branch XII at Ormoc City, Branch XIII at
Carigara, Branch XIV at Baybay, Branch XV at Burauen,
Seven branches (Branches XLIV to L) for the province of
Branch XVI at Naval, Branch XVII at Palompon, and
Masbate, Branches XLIV to XLVIII with seats at Masbate,
Branch XVIII at Hilongos;
Branch XLIX at Cataingan, and Branch L at San Jacinto;
and
Five branches (Branches XIX to XXIII) for the province of
Northern Samar, Branches XIX and XX with seats at
Five branches (Branches LI to LV) for the province of
Catarman, Branches XXI and XXII at Laoang, and Branch
Sorsogon, Branches LI to LIII with seats at Sorsogon,
XXIII at Allen;
Branch LVI at Gubat, and Branch LV at Irosin.

Three branches (Branches XXIV to XXVI) for the province

(g) Sixty-three Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned
of Southern Leyte, Branches XXIV and XXV with seats at
for the Sixth Judicial Region. There shall be:
Maasin, and Branch XXVI at San Juan; and

Nine branches (Branches I to IX) for the province of

Seven branches (Branches XXVII to XXXIII) for the
Aklan, with seats at Kalibo;
province of Samar and the city of Calbayog, Branches
XXVII to XXIX with seats at Catbalogan, Branch XXX at
Four branches (Branches X to XIII) for the province of Basey, Branches XXXI and XXXII at Calbayog City, and
Antique, Branches X to XII with seats at San Jose, and Branch XXXIII at Calbiga.
Branch XIII and Culasi;
(j) Twenty-four Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned
Eight branches (Branches XIV to XXI) for the province of for the Ninth Judicial Region. There shall be:
Capiz and the city of Roxas, Branches XIV to XIX with
seats at Roxas City and Branches XX and XXI at
Two branches (Branches I and II) for the province of
Mambusao;
Basilan, with seats at Isabela;

Eighteen branches (Branches XXII to XXXIX) for the

Two branches (Branches III and IV) for the province of
province of Iloilo, the subprovince of Guimaras, and the
Sulu, Branch III with seat at Jolo, and Branch IV at
city of Iloilo, with seats at Iloilo City; and
Parang;

Twenty-four branches (Branches XL to LXIII) for the

One branch (Branch V) for the province of Tawi-Tawi,
province of Negros Occidental, and the cities of
with seat at Bongao;
Bacolod,Bago, Cadiz, La Carlota, San Carlos and Silay,
Branch XL with seat at Silay City, Branches XLI to LIV at
Bacolod City, Branches LV and LVI at Himamaylan, Six branches (Branches VI to XI) for the province of
Branches LVII to LIX at Kabankalan, Branch LXII at Bago Zamboanga del Norte, and the cities of Dipolog and
City, and Branch LXII at La Carlota City. Dapitan, Branches VI to X seats at Dipolog City, and
Branch XI at Sindangan; and
(h) Forty-six Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned for
the Seventh Judicial Region. There shall be: Thirteen branches (Branches XII to XXIV) for the province
of Zamboanga del Sur and the cities of Pagadian and
Zamboanga Branches XII to XVII with seats at
Four branches (Branches I to IV) for the province of Bohol
Zamboanga City, Branches, XVIII to XXII at Pagadian
and the city of Tagbilaran, with seats at Tagbilaran City;
City, Branch XXIII at Molave, and Branch XXIV at Ipil.

Twenty-five branches (Branches V to XXIX) for the

(k) Thirty-two Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned for
province of Cebu and the cities of Cebu, Danao, Lapu-
the Tenth Judicial Region. There shall be:
Lapu, Mandaue and Toledo, Branches V to XXIV with
seats at Cebu City, Branch XXV at Danao City, Branch
XXVI at Argao, Branch XXVII at Lapu-Lapu City, Branch Five branches (Branches I to V) for the province of
XXVIII at Mandaue City, and Branch XXIX at Toledo City; Agusan del Norte and the city of Butuan, with seats at
Butuan City;
Sixteen branches (Branches XXX to XLV) for the province
of Negros Oriental and the cities of Dumaguete, Bais and Two branches (Branches VI and VII) for the province of
Canlaon, Branches XXX to XLIV with seats at Dumaguete Agusan del Sur, Branches VI with seat at Prosperidad
City, and Branch XLV at Bais City; and and Branch VII with seat at Bayugan;
 Four branches (Branches VIII to XI) for the province of Branch XVII at Kidapawan, and Branch XVIII at Missayap;
Bukidnon, Branches VIII to X with seats at Malaybalay and
and Branch XI at Manalo Fortich;
Two branches (Branches XIX and XX) for the province of
Five branches (Branches XII to XI) for the province of Sultan Kudarat, Branch XIX, with seat at Isulan, and
Misamis Occidental and the cities of Oroquieta, Ozamis, Branch XX at Tacurong.
and Tangub, Branches XII to XIV with seats at Oroquieta
City, Branch XV at Ozamis City, and Branch XVI at
Section 15. Qualifications. – No persons shall be appointed
Tangub City;
Regional Trial Judge unless he is a natural-born citizen of the
Philippines, at least thirty-five years of age, and for at least ten
Eleven branches (Branches XVII to XXVII) for the years, has been engaged in the practice of law in the Philippines or
province of Misamis Oriental and the cities of Cagayan de has held a public office in the Philippines requiring admission to the
Oro and Gingoog, Branches XVII to XXV with seats at practice of law as an indispensable requisite.
Cagayan de Oro City, Branch XXVI at Medina, and
Branch XXVII at Gingoog City;
Section 16. Time and duration of sessions. – The time and duration
of daily sessions of the Regional Trial Courts shall be determined by
One branch (Branch XXVIII) for the province of Camiguin, the Supreme Court: Provided, however, That all motions, except
with seat at Mambajao; and those requiring immediate action, shall be heard in the afternoon of
every Friday, unless it falls on a holiday, in which case, the hearing
shall be held on the afternoon of the next succeeding business
Four branches (Branches XXIX to XXXII) for the province
day: Provided, further, That the Supreme Court may, for good
of Surigao del Norte and the City of Surigao, Branches
reasons, fix a different motion day in specified areas
XXIX and XXX with seats at Surigao City, Branch XXXI at
Dapa, and Branch XXXII at Dinagat, Dinagat Island.
Section 17. Appointment and assignment of Regional Trial
Judges. – Every Regional Trial Judge shall be appointed to a region
(l) Twenty-nine Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned
which shall be his permanent station, and his appointment shall
for the Eleventh Judicial Region. There shall be
state the branch of the court and the seat thereof to which he shall
be originally assigned. However, the Supreme Court may assign
Four branches (Branches I to IV) for the province of temporarily a Regional Trial Judge to another region as public
Davao del Norte, Branches I and II with seats at Tagum, interest may require, provided that such temporary assignment shall
Branch III at Nabunturan, and Branch IV at Panabo; not last longer than six (6) months without the consent of the
Regional Trial Judge concerned.
Three branches (Branches V to VII) for the province of
Davao Oriental, Branches V and VI with seats at Mati and A Regional Trial Judge may be assigned by the Supreme Court to
Branch VII at Banganga; any branch or city or municipality within the same region as public
interest may require, and such assignment shall not be deemed an
assignment to another station within the meaning of this section.
Fourteen branches (Branches VIII to XXI) for the province
of Davao del Sur and the city of Davao, Branches VIII to
XVII with seats at Davao City, Branches XVIII and XIX at Section 18. Authority to define territory appurtenant to each
Digos, Branch XX at Malinta, and Branch XXI a Bansalan; branch. – The Supreme Court shall define the territory over which a
branch of the Regional Trial Court shall exercise its authority. The
territory thus defined shall be deemed to be the territorial area of the
Five Branches (Branches XXII to XXVI) for the province of branch concerned for purposes of determining the venue of all suits,
South Cotabato and the city of General Santos, Branches proceedings or actions, whether civil or criminal, as well as
XXII and XXIII with seats at General Santos City, determining the Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts,
Branches XXIV and XXV at Koronadal, and Branch XXVI and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts over the said branch may
at Surallah; and exercise appellate jurisdiction. The power herein granted shall be
exercised with a view to making the courts readily accessible to the
Three branches (Branches XXVII to XXIX) for the people of the different parts of the region and making the
province of Surigao del Sur, Branch XXVII with seat at attendance of litigants and witnesses as inexpensive as possible.
Tandag, Branch XXVIII at Lianga, and Branch XXIX at
Bislig. Section 19. Jurisdiction in civil cases. – Regional Trial Courts shall
exercise exclusive original jurisdiction:
(m) Twenty Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned for
the Twelfth Judicial Region. There shall be: (1) In all civil actions in which the subject of the litigation is
incapable of pecuniary estimation;
Seven branches (Branches I to VII) for the province of
Lanao del Norte and the city of Iligan, Branches I to VI (2) In all civil actions which involve the title to, or possession
with seats at Iligan City, and Branch VII at Tubod; of, real property, or any interest therein, where the assessed
value of the property involved exceeds Twenty thousand pesos
Five branches (Branches VIII to XII) for the province of (P20,000.00) or for civil actions in Metro Manila, where such
Lanao del Sur and the city of Marawi, Branches VIII to X the value exceeds Fifty thousand pesos (50,000.00) except
with seats at Marawi City, and Branches XI and XII at actions for forcible entry into and unlawful detainer of lands or
Malabang; buildings, original jurisdiction over which is conferred upon
Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, and Municipal
Circuit Trial Courts;
Three branches (Branches XIII to XV) for the province of
Maguindanao and the city of Cotabato, Branches XIII and
XIV with seats at Cotabato City, and Branch XV at (3) In all actions in admiralty and maritime jurisdiction where he
Maganoy; demand or claim exceeds One hundred thousand pesos
(P100,000.00) or , in Metro Manila, where such demand or
claim exceeds Two hundred thousand pesos (200,000.00);
Three branches (Branches XVI to XVIII) for the province
of North Cotabato, Branch XVI with seat at Kabacan,
 (4) In all matters of probate, both testate and intestate, where unless subsequently amended by law or by rules of court
the gross value of the estate exceeds One hundred thousand promulgated by the Supreme Court.
pesos (P100,000.00) or, in probate matters in Metro Manila,
where such gross value exceeds Two hundred thousand
CHAPTER III
pesos (200,000.00);
METROPOLITAN TRIAL COURTS, MUNICIPAL TRIAL COURTS,
AND MUNICIPAL CIRCUIT TRIAL COURTS
(5) In all actions involving the contract of marriage and marital
relations;
Section 25. Establishment of Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal
Trial Courts and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts. – There shall be
(6) In all cases not within the exclusive jurisdiction of any court, created a Metropolitan Trial Court in each metropolitan area
tribunal, person or body exercising jurisdiction or any court, established by law, a Municipal Trial Court in each of the other cities
tribunal, person or body exercising judicial or quasi-judicial or municipalities, and a Municipal Circuit Trial Court in each circuit
functions; comprising such cities and/or municipalities as are grouped together
pursuant to law.
(7) In all civil actions and special proceedings falling within the
exclusive original jurisdiction of a Juvenile and Domestic Section 26. Qualifications. – No person shall be appointed judge of
Relations Court and of the Courts of Agrarian Relations as now a Metropolitan Trial Court, Municipal Trial Court, or Municipal Circuit
provided by law; and Trial Court unless he is a natural-born citizen of the Philippines, at
least 30 years of age, and, for at least five years, has been engaged
in the practice of law in the Philippines, or has held a public office in
(8) In all other cases in which the demand, exclusive of
the Philippines requiring admission to the practice of law as an
interest, damages of whatever kind, attorney's fees, litigation
indispensable requisite.
expenses, and costs or the value of the property in controversy
exceeds One hundred thousand pesos (100,000.00) or, in
such other abovementioned items exceeds Two hundred Section 27. Metropolitan Trial Courts of the National Capital
thousand pesos (200,000.00). (as amended by R.A. No. Region. – There shall be a Metropolitan Trial Court in the National
7691*) Capital Region, to be known as the Metropolitan Trial Court of
Metro Manila, which shall be composed of eighty-two (82)
branches. There shall be:
Section 20. Jurisdiction in criminal cases. – Regional Trial Courts
shall exercise exclusive original jurisdiction in all criminal cases not
within the exclusive jurisdiction of any court, tribunal or body, except Thirty branches (Branches I to XXX) for the city of Manila with
those now falling under the exclusive and concurrent jurisdiction of seats thereat;
the Sandiganbayan which shall hereafter be exclusively taken Thirteen branches (Branches XXXI to XLIII) for Quezon City
cognizance of by the latter. with seats thereat;
Five branches (Branches XLIV to XLVIII) for Pasay City with
seats thereat;
Section 21. Original jurisdiction in other cases. – Regional Trial
Five branches (Branches XLIX to LIII) for Caloocan City with
Courts shall exercise original jurisdiction:
seats thereat;
One branch (Branch LIV) for Navotas with seat thereat;
(1) In the issuance of writs of certiorari, prohibition, mandamus, Two branches (Branches LV and LVI) for Malabon with seats
quo warranto, habeas corpus and injunction which may be thereat;
enforced in any part of their respective regions; and Two branches (Branches LVII and LVIII) for San Juan with
seats thereat;
Two branches (Branches LIX and LX) for Mandaluyong with
(2) In actions affecting ambassadors and other public ministers seats thereat;
and consuls. Seven branches (Branches LXI and LXVII) for Makati with
seats thereat;
Section 22. Appellate jurisdiction. – Regional Trial Courts shall Five branches (Branches LXVIII to LXXII) for Pasig with seats
exercise appellate jurisdiction over all cases decided by thereat;
Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, and Municipal One branch (Branch LXXIII) for Pateros with seat thereat;
Circuit Trial Courts in their respective territorial jurisdictions. Such One branch (Branch LXXIV) for Taguig with seat thereat;
cases shall be decided on the basis of the entire record of the Two branches (Branches LXXV and LXXVI) for Marikina with
proceedings had in the court of origin and such memoranda and/or seats thereat;
briefs as may be submitted by the parties or required by the Two branches (Branches LXXVII and LXXVIII) for Parañaque
Regional Trial Courts. The decision of the Regional Trial Courts in with seats thereat;
such cases shall be appealable by petition for review to the One branch (Branch LXXIX) for Las Piñas with seat thereat;
One branch (Branch LXXX) for Muntinlupa with seat thereat;
Two branches (Branches LXXXI and LXXXII) for Valenzuela
Court of Appeals which may give it due course only when the with seats thereat;
petition shows prima facie that the lower court has committed an
error of fact or law that will warrant a reversal or modification of the
decision or judgment sought to be reviewed. Section 28. Other Metropolitan Trial Courts. – The Supreme Court
shall constitute Metropolitan Trial Courts in such other metropolitan
areas as may be established by law whose territorial jurisdiction
Section 23. Special jurisdiction to try special cases. – The Supreme shall be co-extensive with the cities and municipalities comprising
Court may designate certain branches of the Regional Trial Courts the metropolitan area.
to handle exclusively criminal cases, juvenile and domestic relations
cases, agrarian cases, urban land reform cases which do not fall
under the jurisdiction of quasi-judicial bodies and agencies, and/or Every Metropolitan Trial Judge shall be appointed to a metropolitan
such other special cases as the Supreme Court may determine in area which shall be his permanent station and his appointment shall
the interest of a speedy and efficient administration of justice. state branch of the court and the seat thereof to which he shall be
originally assigned. A Metropolitan Trial Judge may be assigned by
the Supreme Court to any branch within said metropolitan area as
Section 24. Special Rules of Procedure. – Whenever a Regional the interest of justice may require, and such assignment shall not be
Trial Court takes cognizance of juvenile and domestic relation cases deemed an assignment to another station within the meaning of this
and/or agrarian cases, the special rules of procedure applicable section.
under present laws to such cases shall continue to be applied,
Section 29. Municipal Trial Courts in cities. – In every city which The Supreme Court shall determine the city or municipality where
does not form part of a metropolitan area, there shall be a Municipal the Municipal Circuit Trial Court shall hold sessions.
Trial Court with one branch, except as hereunder provided:
Section 32. Jurisdiction of Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial
Two branches for Laoag City; Courts and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts in criminal cases. – Except
Four branches for Baguio City; in cases falling within the exclusive original jurisdiction of Regional
Three branches for Dagupan City; Trial Courts and of the Sandiganbayan, the Metropolitan Trial
Five branches for Olongapo City; Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts
Three branches for Cabanatuan City; shall exercise:
Two branches for San Jose City;
Three branches for Angeles City;
(1) Exclusive original jurisdiction over all violations of city or
Two branches for Cavite City;
municipal ordinances committed within their respective
Two branches for Batangas City;
territorial jurisdiction; and
Two branches for Lucena City;
Three branches for Naga City;
Two branches for Iriga City; (2) Exclusive original jurisdiction over all offenses punishable
Three branches for Legaspi City; with imprisonment not exceeding six (6) years irrespective of
Two branches for Roxas City; the amount of fine, and regardless of other imposable
Four branches for Iloilo City; accessory or other penalties, including the civil liability arising
Seven branches for Bacolod City; from such offenses or predicated thereon, irrespective of kind,
Two branches for Dumaguete City; nature, value, or amount thereof: Provided, however, That in
Two branches for Tacloban City; offenses involving damage to property through criminal
Eight branches for Cebu City; negligence they shall have exclusive original jurisdiction
Three branches for Mandaue City; thereof. (as amended by R.A, No. 7691)
Two branches for Tagbilaran City;
Two branches for Surigao City;
Section 33. Jurisdiction of Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial
Two branches for Butuan City;
Courts and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts in civil cases. –
Five branches for Cagayan de Oro City;
Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, and Municipal
Seven branches for Davao City;
Circuit Trial Courts shall exercise:
Three branches for General Santos City;
Two branches for Oroquieta City;
Three branches for Ozamis City; (1) Exclusive original jurisdiction over civil actions and probate
Two branches for Dipolog City; proceedings, testate and intestate, including the grant of
Four branches for Zamboanga City; provisional remedies in proper cases, where the value of the
Two branches for Pagadian City; and personal property, estate, or amount of the demand does not
Two branches for Iligan City. exceed One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) or, in
Metro Manila where such personal property, estate, or amount
of the demand does not exceed Two hundred thousand pesos
Section 30. Municipal Trial Courts. – In each of the municipalities
(P200,000.00) exclusive of interest damages of whatever kind,
that are not comprised within a metropolitan area and a municipal
attorney's fees, litigation expenses, and costs, the amount of
circuit there shall be a Municipal Trial Court which shall have one
which must be specifically alleged: Provided, That where there
branch, except as hereunder provided:
are several claims or causes of action between the same or
different parties, embodied in the same complaint, the amount
Two branches for San Fernando, La Union; of the demand shall be the totality of the claims in all the
Four branches for Tuguegarao; causes of action, irrespective of whether the causes of action
Three branches for Lallo, and two branches for Aparri, both of arose out of the same or different transactions;
Cagayan;
Two branches for Santiago, Isabela;
(2) Exclusive original jurisdiction over cases of forcible entry
Two branches each for Malolos, Meycauayan and Bulacan, all
and unlawful detainer: Provided, That when, in such cases, the
of Bulacan Province;
defendant raises the question of ownership in his pleadings
Four branches for San Fernando and two branches for
and the question of possession cannot be resolved without
Guagua, both of Pampanga;
deciding the issue of ownership, the issue of ownership shall
Two branches for Tarlac, Tarlac;
be resolved only to determine the issue of possession.
Two branches for San Pedro, Laguna; and
Two branches each for Antipolo and Binangonan, both in
Rizal. (3) Exclusive original jurisdiction in all civil actions which
involve title to, or possession of, real property, or any interest
therein where the assessed value of the property or interest
Section 31. Municipal Circuit Trial Court. – There shall be a
therein does not exceed Twenty thousand pesos (P20,000.00)
Municipal Circuit Trial Court in each area defined as a municipal
or, in civil actions in Metro Manila, where such assessed value
circuit, comprising one or more cities and/or one or more
does not exceed Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) exclusive
municipalities. The municipalities comprising municipal circuits as
of interest, damages of whatever kind, attorney's fees, litigation
organized under Administrative Order No. 33, issued on June 13,
expenses and costs: Provided, That value of such property
1978 by the Supreme Court pursuant to Presidential Decree No.
shall be determined by the assessed value of the adjacent
537, are hereby constituted as municipal circuits for purposes of the
lots. (as amended by R.A. No. 7691)
establishment of the Municipal Circuit Trial Courts, and the
appointment thereto of Municipal Circuit Trial Judges: Provided,
however, That the Supreme Court may, as the interests of justice Section 34. Delegated jurisdiction in cadastral and land registration
may require, further reorganize the said courts taking into account cases. – Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, and
workload, geographical location, and such other factors as will Municipal Circuit Trial Courts may be assigned by the Supreme
contribute to a rational allocation thereof, pursuant to the provisions Court to hear and determine cadastral or land registration cases
of Presidential Decree No. 537 which shall be applicable insofar as covering lots where there is no controversy or opposition, or
they are not inconsistent with this Act. contested lots the where the value of which does not exceed One
hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00), such value to be
ascertained by the affidavit of the claimant or by agreement of the
Every Municipal Circuit Trial Judge shall be appointed to a
respective claimants if there are more than one, or from the
municipal circuit which shall be his official station.
corresponding tax declaration of the real property. Their decisions in
these cases shall be appealable in the same manner as decisions from: Provided however, That in habeas corpus cases, the period
of the Regional Trial Courts. (as amended by R.A. No. 7691) for appeal shall be forty-eight (48) hours from the notice of the
judgment appealed from.
Section 35. Special jurisdiction in certain cases. – In the absence of
all the Regional Trial Judges in a province or city, any Metropolitan No record on appeal shall be required to take an appeal. In lieu
Trial Judge, Municipal Trial Judge, Municipal Circuit Trial Judge thereof, the entire record shall be transmitted with all the pages
may hear and decide petitions for a writ of habeas corpus or prominently numbered consecutively, together with an index of the
applications for bail in criminal cases in the province or city where contents thereof.
the absent Regional Trial Judges sit.
This section shall not apply in appeals in special proceedings and in
Section 36. Summary procedures in special cases. – In other cases wherein multiple appeals are allowed under applicable
Metropolitan Trial Courts and Municipal Trial Courts with at least provisions of the Rules of Court.
two branches, the Supreme Court may designate one or more
branches thereof to try exclusively forcible entry and unlawful
Section 40. Form of decision in appealed cases. – Every decision
detainer cases, those involving violations of traffic laws, rules and
of final resolution of a court in appealed cases shall clearly and
regulations, violations of the rental law, and such other cases
distinctly state the findings of fact and the conclusions of law on
requiring summary disposition as the Supreme Court may
which it is based, which may be contained in the decision or final
determine. The Supreme Court shall adopt special rules or
resolution itself, or adopted by reference from those set forth in the
procedures applicable to such cases in order to achieve an
decision, order, or resolution appealed from.
expeditious and inexpensive determination thereof without regard to
technical rules. Such simplified procedures may provide that
affidavits and counter-affidavits may be admitted in lieu of oral Section 41. Salaries. – Intermediate Appellate Justices, Regional
testimony and that the periods for filing pleadings shall be non- Trial Judges, Metropolitan Trial Judges, Municipal Trial Judges, and
extendible. Municipal Circuit Trial Judges shall receive such compensation and
allowances as may be authorized by the President along the
guidelines set forth in Letter of Implementation No. 93 pursuant to
Section 37. Preliminary investigation. – Judges of Metropolitan Trial
Presidential Decree No. 985, as amended by Presidential Decree
Courts, except those in the National Capital Region, of Municipal
No. 1597.
Trial Courts, and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts shall have authority
to conduct preliminary investigation of crimes alleged to have been
committed within their respective territorial jurisdictions which are Section 42. Longevity pay. – A monthly longevity pay equivalent to
cognizable by the Regional Trial Courts. 5% of the monthly basic pay shall be paid to the Justices and
Judges of the courts herein created for each five years of
continuous, efficient, and meritorious service rendered in the
The preliminary investigation shall be conducted in accordance with
judiciary; Provided, That in no case shall the total salary of each
the procedure prescribed in Section 1, paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and
Justice or Judge concerned, after this longevity pay is added,
(d), of Presidential Decree No. 911: Provided, however, That if after
exceed the salary of the Justice or Judge next in rank.
the preliminary investigation the Judge finds a prima facie case, he
shall forward the records of the case to the Provincial/City Fiscal for
the filing of the corresponding information with the proper court. Section 43. Staffing pattern. – The Supreme Court shall submit to
the President, within thirty (30) days from the date of the effectivity
of this Act, a staffing pattern for all courts constituted pursuant to
No warrant of arrest shall be issued by the Judge in connection with
this Act which shall be the basis of the implementing order to be
any criminal complaint filed with him for preliminary investigation,
issued by the President in accordance with the immediately
unless after an examination in writing and under oath or affirmation
succeeding section.
of the complainant and his witnesses, he finds that a probable
cause exists.
Section 44. Transitory provisions. – The provisions of this Act shall
be immediately carried out in accordance with an Executive Order
Any warrant of arrest issued in accordance herewith may be served
to be issued by the President. The Court of Appeals, the Courts of
anywhere in the Philippines.
First Instance, the Circuit Criminal Courts, the Juvenile and
Domestic Relations Courts, the Courts of Agrarian Relations, the
Section 38. Judgments and processes. – City Courts, the Municipal Courts, and the Municipal Circuit Courts
shall continue to function as presently constituted and organized,
until the completion of the reorganization provided in this Act as
(1) All judgments determining the merits of cases shall be in
declared by the President. Upon such declaration, the said courts
writing, stating clearly the facts and the law on which they were
shall be deemed automatically abolished and the incumbents
based, signed by the Judge and filed with the Clerk of Court.
thereof shall cease to hold office. The cases pending in the old
Such judgment shall be appealable to the Regional Trial
Courts shall be transferred to the appropriate Courts constituted
Courts in accordance with the procedure now prescribed by
pursuant to this Act, together with the pertinent functions, records,
law for appeals to the Court of First Instance, by the provisions
equipment, property and the necessary personnel.
of this Act, and by such rules as the Supreme Court may
hereafter prescribe.
The applicable appropriations shall likewise be transferred to the
appropriate courts constituted pursuant to this Act, to be augmented
(2) All processes issued by the Metropolitan Trial Courts,
as may be necessary from the funds for organizational changes as
Municipal Trial Courts and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts, in
provided in Batas Pambansa Blg. 80. Said funding shall thereafter
cases falling within their jurisdiction, may be served anywhere
be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.
in the Philippines without the necessity of certification by the
Judge of the Regional Trial Court.
Section 45. Shari'a Courts. – Shari'a Courts to be constituted as
provided for in Presidential Decree No. 1083, otherwise known as
CHAPTER IV
the "Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines," shall be
GENERAL PROVISIONS
included in the funding appropriations so provided in this Act.

Section 39. Appeals. – The period for appeal from final orders,

Section 46. Gratuity of judges and personnel separated from
resolutions, awards, judgments, or decisions of any court in all
office. – All members of the judiciary and subordinate employees
cases shall be fifteen (15) days counted from the notice of the final
who shall be separated from office by reason of the reorganization
order, resolution, award, judgment, or decision appealed
authorized herein, shall be granted a gratuity at a rate equivalent to
one month's salary for every year of continuous service rendered in
any branch of the government or equivalent nearest fraction thereof
favorable to them on the basis of the highest salary
received: Provided, That such member of the judiciary or employee
shall have the option to retire under the Judiciary Retirement Law or
general retirement law, if he has met or satisfied the requirements
therefor.

Section 47. Repealing clause. – The provisions of Republic Act No.

296, otherwise known as the Judiciary Act of 1948, as amended, of
Republic Act No. 5179 as amended, of the Rules of Court, and of all
other statutes, letters of instructions and general order or parts
thereof, inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby
repealed or accordingly modified.

Section 48. Date of Effectivity. – This Act shall take effect

immediately.

Approved: August 14, 1981

Footnotes

*Other provisions of the Act:

"Section. 5. After five(5) years from the effectivity of this Act,

the jurisdictional amounts mentioned in Sec. 19(3), (4), and
(8); and Sec. 33(1) of Batas Pambansa Blg. 129 as amended
by this Act, shall be adjusted to Two hundred thousand pesos
(P200,000.00). five (5) years thereafter, such jurisdictional
amounts shall be adjusted further to Three hundred thousand
pesos (P300,000.00): Provided, however, That in the case of
Metro Manila, the abovementioned jurisdictional amounts shall
be adjusted after five (5) years from the effectivity of this Act of
Four hundred thousand pesos (P400,000.00).

Section. 7. The provisions of this Act shall apply to all civil

cases that have not yet reached the pre-trial stage. However,
by agreement of all the parties, civil cases cognizable by
municipal and metropolitan courts by the provisions of this Act
may be transferred from the Regional Trial Courts to the latter.
The executive judge of the appropriate Regional Trial Court
shall define the administrative procedure of transferring the
cases affected by the redefinition of jurisdiction to the
Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Court, and Municipal
Circuit Trial Court."

*Criminal cases falling within the jurisdiction of Family Courts

(established by the Family Courts Act of 1997 [R.A. No. 8369])
have been transferred from Metropolitan trial Courts, Municipal
Trial Courts, Municipal trial Court in Cities, Municipal Trial
Courts and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts to Regional trial
Courts under A.M. No. 99-1-13-SC effective March 1, 1999.