MikeLigalig.com

By JEAMMA E. SABATE
Manila Bulletin

Acting Justice Secretary Alberto C. Agra has ordered an automatic review of dismissed cases involving drugs.

Agra issued Department Circular No. 39 for the “automatic review of dismissed cases involving Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).”

Under the circular dated June 7, 2010, the dismissal of all cases by the chief state prosecutor, regional state prosecutors, provincial and city prosecutors, whether on inquest, preliminary investigation, reinvestigation or on appeal, filed for violation of R.A. No. 9165 and involving the maximum penalty of life imprisonment to death, will be subject to automatic review by the justice secretary.

The circular said the entire records of the case will be elevated to the justice secretary within three days from issuance of the resolution dismissing the complaint or appeal.