The Legal Division of the Cooperative Development Authority successfully conducted the Training on the Fundamentals of Legal Investigation on July 21, 2025, via Zoom. In partnership with the Office of the Solicitor General, this training brought together legal officers both in the CDA Head Office and from across the regional extension offices to reinforce foundational knowledge in conducting fair and efficient legal investigations. This training forms part of the Authority’s continuing efforts to build capacity and uphold integrity in the performance of its regulatory and enforcement functions.
Administrator of the CDA, Assistant Secretary Santiago S. Lim opened the training by affirming that the training is for both lawyers and non-lawyers, aimed at building credible and capable investigators. “With the rising number of complaints and cases, we must strengthen our capacity to respond, not only with competence, but with consistency and compassion,” he said. Quoting the legal maxim Audi Alteram Partem, in English, Hear the other side, Asec. Lim reminded all participants that every investigation must be a balanced and truthful pursuit of justice.
Under Secretary Alexander B. Raquepo CDA Chairperson
True to his well-known advocacy for continuous learning, Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo delivered an inspirational message, emphasizing that the training will enhance our capabilities, strengthen our talents, and build confidence in performing our daily duties, ultimately leading to better delivery of public service. We must be grateful for CDA in making these kinds of training possible for everyone’s opportunity. He underscored collaboration as one of the key mandates of the agency, with this training serving as a prime example. Investigation is a specialized skill, it takes intelligence, wittiness and a lot of common sense. He concluded his message with a meaningful reminder: Learn, Serve, Share, and be Thankful.
Atty. Leah B. Banagui-Han
Deputy Administrator of the Legal Affairs Service
At the core of every case we handle is one undeniable truth: a case is only as strong as the investigation behind it. No matter how skilled we are in advocacy or how passionate we are in pursuing justice, if the investigation is weak, the case will falter — and justice may be denied. That is why DA Leah emphasized that this training is not just another session but an opportunity to sharpen the very foundation of our craft as legal professionals. Investigation, she stated, is not merely a process, it is an art and a science, a discipline that demands creativity, courage, and clarity of thought. It teaches us to look beyond what is obvious, to see connections others might miss, and to gather evidence and craft narratives that can withstand the toughest challenges in court. CDA is truly blessed and honored to learn from some of the most respected minds in the field with Justice Sonny Von Ruaya and Atty. Alanna Gayle Ashley Khio, our very own cooperative lawyer in the OSG. DA Leah concluded with an earnest message: Take this step toward becoming not just good lawyers and staff, but excellent investigators — creative, meticulous, and unstoppable in our pursuit of justice.
Atty. Alanna Gayle Ashley Khio gave a thorough walkthrough of how investigations should be handled under Republic Act No. 11364. She explained each step from filing and evaluating complaints to issuing notices and completing reports while highlighting the importance of due process at every stage. She also shared practical tips on evidence gathering and reporting, making the discussion grounded in real experience, as Justice Ruaya recounted his lessons from handling complex cases that ultimately led to successful outcomes.
Moreover, Atty. Khio reviewed outputs submitted by participants in the last conducted Training in Legal Writing and provided direct editorial guidance. She gave the following reminders and recommendations in writing a report:
- Write out abbreviations for the benefit of lay readers
- Indicate the names of the Docket or Legal Officers in reports
- Use the standard Statement of Facts form
- Provide specific and detailed narratives to support the legal and factual basis of investigation findings
- Always proofread your work
During the open forum, Justice Sonny Von Ruaya provided responses to questions raised by participants, drawing from his extensive experience in legal investigation.
Justice Ruaya emphasized that assessing evidence begins with understanding the nature of the charge, its elements, and jurisdiction. He reminded participants to remain objective and focus on issues raised in pleadings. On malicious prosecution, he clarified that good faith is your valid defense. Sharing a case on fuel smuggling, he encouraged thinking beyond standard approaches when dealing with weak cases. He also underscored the need for institutional safeguards to protect investigators, and clarified that double jeopardy applies only to criminal cases, while res judicata governs administrative proceedings.
Ultimately, the goal of every investigation is to uphold truth and due process.
Atty. Sheena T. Rima
Chief of the Legal Division
Atty. Sheena T. Rima formally concluded the training by expressing gratitude to the resource speakers, the dedicated legal personnel behind the program, and all participants. She shared her hope that the knowledge and practical strategies gained should continue to empower everyone as legal professionals and public servants, with the anticipation that these skills lead to more credible, efficient, and fair investigations moving forward.
Always think outside the box, but stay grounded in legality and due process.
-Hon. Justice Sonny Von Ruaya
