Online Court Visit Report: Family Court (FC) Branch 16, Sariaya, QuezonPresiding Judge: Hon. Patricia Angeles R. Cataquiz-Fidel

Overview

On May 16, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., Hon. Judge Patricia Angeles R. Cataquiz-Fidel warmly welcomed five (5) children and three (3) adult participants from Child and Family Service Philippines, Baguio City.

Due to the geographical distance between FC Branch 16 in Sariaya, Quezon and the participating shelter in Baguio City, the court visit was conducted through an online platform. Despite the virtual format, the session effectively provided a supportive and engaging environment for the participants.

Judge Cataquiz-Fidel shared that judges often take on a role similar to that of a parent—protective and understanding, especially toward children. She reassured participants that the courtroom is a safe space, and that there is no need to feel intimidated when appearing in court.

Objectives of the Session

The online court visit aimed to:
• Enhance the children’s self-confidence in facing court proceedings.
• Help children understand the importance of telling the truth in court.
• Explain the role of a witness and its significance in legal proceedings.
• Provide an opportunity for children to ask questions and clarify concerns directly with the Judge.

Court Orientation and Discussion

Atty. Arvy Ramos, Clerk of Court, facilitated the orientation of the court system and procedures. He introduced the court personnel and explained their respective roles, helping participants understand how each individual contributes to the judicial process.
The session also included:
• An introduction and rapport-building activity.
• A discussion on children’s feelings and concerns about court.
• An overview of legal procedures.
• An explanation of the roles of people in court.

Video Role-Play Presentation

A video role-play was presented to illustrate courtroom proceedings in a child-friendly manner. The video emphasized that the scenario was fictional and created solely for educational purposes.

The role-play depicted a criminal case involving a 13-year-old girl named Clara, who filed a complaint against her mother’s former partner for alleged sexual abuse. The presentation aimed to provide participants with a clearer understanding of how a trial unfolds inside the courtroom.

Open Forum with the Judge

Hon. Judge Cataquiz-Fidel served as a resource person during the session, encouraging children and social workers to ask questions and raise concerns. This interactive portion allowed participants to clarify aspects of court proceedings that they found confusing and helped them feel more prepared for their actual hearing.

The Judge also emphasized the importance of communication during court proceedings:
“In court proceedings, English is sometimes used, but participants may request to use Filipino for better understanding. If another language, such as Ilocano, is needed, an interpreter can be provided with prior notice. Participants are encouraged to express their needs—whether to ask for clarification or to request a break. It is perfectly acceptable to say, ‘I don’t understand’ or ‘I need a break.’ The court values open communication and encourage everyone to speak up if they need assistance.”

Question and Answer Session

Judge Cataquiz-Fidel addressed the questions of the child participants with clarity and sensitivity:

1. Hanggang kailan po pwedeng magpa-reschedule ng court hearing?
   Answer: The Judge explained that once a case is filed, hearings are scheduled in advance (usually 5–6 settings). While rescheduling is possible, courts follow the rule on speedy trial, especially if the accused is detained. Therefore, repeated postponements are not allowed.
2. Paano po kung matalo ako sa kaso?
   Answer: The outcome depends on whether the case is dismissed at the prosecutor level or decided by the judge. Acquittal may occur if there is insufficient evidence, weak testimony, or lack of legal basis. However, such outcomes are carefully evaluated.
3. Pwede po bang ma-dismiss ang kaso sa level ng Prosecutor?
   Answer: Yes, cases may be dismissed at the prosecutor level. However, if new incidents occur, a new case may be filed. If there are concerns about bias, a request for reassignment of the prosecutor may be made.
4. Paano po kung walang ibang testigo at sarili ko lang ang ebidensya?
   Answer: In private crimes, such as sexual abuse, it is not always expected to have other witnesses. The testimony of the victim is given due consideration.

Conclusion

The online court visit successfully provided children and their support people with a better understanding of court processes in a safe and accessible format. Despite being conducted virtually, the session effectively built confidence, clarified misconceptions, and reinforced the importance of truthfulness and communication in court.
The opportunity to directly engage with the Judge and court personnel significantly contributed to reducing fear and preparing the children for their participation in legal proceedings.

About KTCAP

“The Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP) is a collaborative initiative designed to empower child and teen victims or witnesses of abuse and exploitation. Its goal is to prepare them for court appearances while easing the fear, anxiety, and uncertainty often associated with legal proceedings. Inspired by the King County Kids’ Court in Seattle and thoughtfully adapted for the Philippine context, KTCAP helps young participants understand the justice system, their role in it, and how to navigate courtroom processes with confidence and clarity.

The Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Foundation (JCMPF), in collaboration with the Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Sexual Abuse (CPTCSA) and Action Against Violence and Exploitation, conducts the Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP).

Every child has the right to be heard. KTCAP is helping make that possible—one empowered child at a time.”