Consultation held on proposed Family Court in Apayao

A consultation meeting on the proposed establishment of an additional Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Apayao, to be designated as a Family Court, was held on January 13, 2026, at the Capitol Conference Hall in San Isidro, Luna.

The consultation was led by Congresswoman Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang and gathered stakeholders from the justice sector, including judges, prosecutors, public attorneys, the Provincial Legal Office (PLO), lawyers of the Provincial Government of Apayao, and officers of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)–Apayao Chapter.

The proposed Family Court is intended to serve as a specialized venue for family-related cases, particularly those involving violence against women and children (VAWC) and other domestic cases requiring focused and timely judicial handling.

During the discussion, participants raised concerns on case volume, case management, confidentiality, victim protection, and operational challenges affecting the delivery of justice in the province. Relevant case data and field experiences were also shared to support the proposal.

Congresswoman Bulut-Begtang underscored the need to strengthen judicial mechanisms in the province, especially those aimed at protecting vulnerable sectors such as women and children.

The Office of the Congresswoman, in coordination with legal practitioners and concerned stakeholders, will further review the inputs gathered to assess the feasibility and possible implementation of the proposed Family Court.