The Sandiganbayan shifted back to in-court hearings today, Feb. 16, but only the parties to the cases, their lawyers, and their witnesses are allowed physically inside the courtrooms.

Presiding Justice Amparo M. Cabotaje Tang said in her memorandum that those who are allowed to be physically present inside courtrooms should present their negative antigen tests.

The strict requirements on in-court hearings were issued upon consultation and approval of Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Justice Tang said.

The memorandum also stated that the Sandiganbayan's Security and Sheriff Services Division has been tasked to check the negative antigen or RT-PCR test result for all individuals who will be attending hearings.

"The antigen or RT-PCR test should have been taken within 48 prior to their entry into the Sandiganbayan. For lawyers, parties, and witnesses who are present in multiple settings or in different cases in a given week, it is sufficient that said person has secured one negative antigen or RT-PCR test result and presented the same at his earliest entry in the Sandiganbayan for that week,” it added.

Those who refuse to comply with the antigen or RT-PCR tests will be barred entry, and will be advised to participate through video conferencing instead,” it warned.

In case of an accused with a pending warrant of arrest or who has been arrested and who wishes to post bail before the Sandiganbayan but who fails to present a negative antigen or RT-PCR test result shall undergo antigen testing at the expense of the Sandiganbayan.

The memorandum also stated: “Hearings via video conferencing may be conducted only in exceptional cases, upon motion of either or both parties, or upon orders of the court, which shall schedule the said video conferencing hearings.”