In the Philippines, there are areas and challenges that must be given attention by the Legislative and Judiciary [the Supreme Court of the Philippines] . Some of the problem areas in the prosecution of crimes committed in the country are as follows: There is poor coordination between the law enforcer and the prosecution in prosecuting offenses. There is a problem in evidence gathering and case building. There is case congestion in courts located in rural areas due to a lack of courts and judges or court personnel. The quantum of proof of the prosecution is the lowest form among the quantum of proof required in the prosecution of offenses; as such, during preliminary investigation under the 2000 Rules on Criminal Procedure, the quantum of proof relied upon by the prosecution is probable cause. There is a problem in complaint filing because of the lack of proper training in the preparation of the complaint affidavits by the law enforcers. Many cases are dismissed due to technicalities. Lack of efficiency and promptness, which causes delays in the prosecution of offenses; and The slow phase in the reforms needed to revise or amend the criminal laws and court procedures in the Philippines.
The Congress has played a greater part in these reforms by enacting laws as remedies for the above-mentioned problem areas and challenges, as well as by creating more courts in rural areas to avoid congestion of cases. Further, it will help the accused's constitutional rights to a speedy trial if court dockets are not congested. In the prosecution of offenses, pursuant to DC No. 18, 18-A, 020, the Department of Justice has increased the quantum of proof from probable cause to prima facie evidence, which will help the prosecution's determination of a prima facie case. Prima facie evidence is a quantum of proof higher than probable cause, which is only based on a reasonable belief. Also, the introduction of forensic science as one of the modes of prosecuting heinous crimes like murder, homicide, and rape, among others, is very important in determining the real perpetrator. This can help the Philippine Justice System ensure that only those who committed the crimes will be punished.