Guidelines for Decongesting Holding Jails by Enforcing the Rights of Accused Persons to Bail and to Speedy Trial

Section 1

After completion of witness' testimony and after the threat has been assessed to be at a manageable level, coverage may be terminated, without prejudice to re-admission in case serious threats re-appear. Termination of the coverage shall take effect thirty (30) days from receipt by the witness of the notice of termination, unless a different date is agreed upon.

Section 2

In cases where none of the accused has been arrested, the coverage of the witness shall be terminated two years after the case has been archived. On meritorious grounds, the Program may extend the coverage for a maximum period of one year. Such termination shall be without prejudice to the witness' re-admission or reinstatement in the event that any of the accused-at-large is arrested.

Section 3

Coverage may be terminated by written notice if a witness breaches any MOA stipulation, violates any Program rules or any other condition for his coverage. Termination shall take effect five (5) days from receipt of notice. However, in case of serious breach or violation of the MOA or the Program rules or guidelines, such as those involving security, confidentiality or similar matters, termination of the coverage shall be effective immediately.

Section 4

The coverage of the witness may be terminated upon his written request. Such termination will be effective upon approval by the Implementor or on such a date as may be agreed upon. The coverage of a witness who has been granted regular admission shall be effective until terminated. Provisional coverage is effective for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days, without prejudice to an extension. For the purpose of monitoring and determining the basis for continued coverage, Implementors shall submit a quarterly report on the status of all cases involving covered witnesses which should contain, among others, these information: 1. Stage of proceedings; 2. Whether or not witness has testified; 3. Next hearing dates; 4. Level of threats/intimidation; and 5. Other relevant information.