Provincial government turns over land to establish new justice facility to improve access to legal services The Provincial Government of Laguna has secured a parcel of land for the construction of a new Department of Justice (DOJ) facility, to be known as the Katarungan Center, marking a major step in improving access to justice for residents of the province.
The project was formalized on March 5, 2026, through the ceremonial signing of a Deed of Usufruct, attended by Laguna Governor Sol Aragones, Vice Governor JM Carait, and DOJ Secretary Fredderick A. Vida, along with local officials and community leaders.
Under the agreement, a portion of land in Santa Cruz, Laguna will be used to develop the new justice facility, which aims to bring legal and justice-related services closer to residents of Santa Cruz and nearby municipalities.
“Ang araw na ito ay hinihintay din ng marami sa inyo, dahil matagal nating hinintay na maibigay sa probinsiya ng Laguna ang bahagi ng lupa sa Sta. Cruz para ito ay tuluyan nang mapakinabangan at malagyan ng istruktura na tatawagin nating Katarungan Center para pakinabangan ng ating mga kababayan,” Aragones said during the ceremony, highlighting the project as a long-awaited milestone for Laguna.
The governor also stressed the importance of inclusive leadership, saying that public service is not only about delivering projects but also about listening to the needs and concerns of the community.
Secretary Vida expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing that the Katarungan Center will make justice services more accessible, fair, and responsive. “Tandaan natin na bawat Pilipinong dumudulog sa ating opisina ay may hinahanap na katarungan,” Vida said, underscoring the facility’s mission to serve the public effectively.
The signing of the Deed of Usufruct formally grants the right to use the land for the Katarungan Center. Vice Governor Carait also reaffirmed his support, emphasizing collaboration between national and local government units to improve justice delivery in the province.
Once completed, the Katarungan Center is expected to serve as a central hub for legal services, court proceedings, and other justice programs, benefiting residents of Santa Cruz and surrounding towns.
