MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) assured the public that only meritorious cases will move forward to trial, following the Supreme Court’s ruling upholding the validity of a department circular that raised standards of evidence in preliminary investigations and inquest proceedings.

In a statement, the DOJ said it will continue implementing the guidelines under Department Circular 15 conviction.

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said the ruling reinforces the DOJ’s commitment to reforming and strengthening the country’s criminal justice system.

“The Supreme Court’s affirmation validates our bold step toward a more discerning and effective prosecution system,” Vida said.

“This is not about making justice harder to achieve. It’s about making it fairer, faster, and more reliable for all Filipinos,” he added.