Court work in quake-stricken areas suspended

AP FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – Operations of courts in Cebu City, Lapu-lapu City and Mandaue City have been suspended due to continuing aftershocks in the area, the Office of the Court Administrator announced Monday.

Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez said the OCA officials are scouting for areas where hearings may temporarily be held.

“But pending such identification, hearings and work at these Halls of Justice are suspended,” Marquez said.

Marquez said the Hall of Justice in Cebu was severely damaged by the quake.

“In Lapu Lapu, the building only has minimal damage but still has to be checked by structural engineer,” he said, adding that the same goes in Tagbilaran.

On the other hand, in Bohol, Marquez said it is upon the discretion of the Executive Judges on whether to suspend work or not.

Cebu and Bohol are two of the worst hit provinces by the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that occurred last week.