The Provincial Government of Laguna has granted the use of a parcel of land for the construction of a new Department of Justice facility, to be known as the Katarungan Center, following the ceremonial signing of a Deed of Usufruct on March 5, 2026.
The milestone event was attended by Laguna Governor Sol Aragones, Vice Governor JM Carait, Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida, along with local government officials and community leaders.
Under the agreement, the Provincial Government of Laguna granted the Department of Justice the right to use the land located in Santa Cruz for the development of the Katarungan Center.
In her remarks, Governor Aragones highlighted the significance of the initiative, noting that the project had long been awaited by many residents of the province. She shared that the land in Santa Cruz can now be fully utilized for a facility that will serve the public and strengthen access to justice in Laguna.
Aragones also emphasized the importance of inclusive leadership, saying that effective leadership involves not only delivering services but also listening to the concerns and needs of the community.
Justice Secretary Vida expressed his support for the project and underscored the importance of expanding justice services. He stressed that every Filipino who seeks assistance from justice institutions is looking for fairness and accountability, reinforcing the mission of the Katarungan Center to provide accessible, fair, and timely justice.
The signing of the Deed of Usufruct formally allows the Department of Justice to use the land granted by the provincial government for the construction and operation of the justice facility. During the program, Vice Governor Carait’s presence was acknowledged, and several individuals were also recognized for their contributions to the realization of the project.
Carait reaffirmed his support for the initiative and emphasized the importance of collaboration between national and local government units in improving the delivery of justice services in the province.
Once completed, the Katarungan Center is expected to serve as a central hub for legal services, court proceedings, and other justice-related functions, providing residents of Santa Cruz and nearby municipalities with more efficient and accessible access to the justice system.
