Whenever there’s a high-profile criminal investigation, we hear about a special program that offers protection to witnesses, whistleblowers, and even individuals involved in crimes who are willing to testify in court.
This program under the Justice Department is called the Witness Protection, Security and Benefit Program (DOJ-WPSBP)—and it’s more than just a name. It’s a lifeline for those who risk their safety to tell the truth.
Established under Republic Act No. 6981, the WPSBP exists to protect witnesses and their families from threats, intimidation, and economic hardship. It ensures that justice moves forward, especially in cases involving serious or “grave” crimes.
Here’s everything you need to know about who qualifies, what support is provided, and how to apply.
Who Qualifies for the WPSBP?
The program welcomes individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements:
- Witnesses with Firsthand Knowledge of a Crime
Anyone who saw or knows something about a grave felony (as defined by law) and is willing to testify in court, to law enforcement, or before a government agency. - State Witnesses
These are individuals involved in the crime but discharged from prosecution in exchange for testifying on behalf of the state. - Witnesses in Legislative Hearings
Those testifying before Congress may be covered—with approval from the Senate President or Speaker of the House.
Exclusions:
- Law enforcement officers themselves cannot apply, though their family members may be considered.
- The witness’s testimony must be corroborated and their safety must be under real threat due to their cooperation.
Key Benefits of the WPSBP
Once accepted into the program, a witness receives several critical protections and support services:
- Security and Protection
- Secure Housing: The witness may be relocated to a safe, undisclosed location.
- Escort Services: Security personnel accompany witnesses during court hearings or emergencies.
- New Identity and Relocation: In high-risk cases, witnesses and their families may be given new identities and transferred to a new location after testifying.
- Financial and Livelihood Support
- Daily Living Allowance: While participating in hearings, witnesses receive funds to cover basic needs.
- Job Assistance or Small Business Support: Helps ease economic disruption after relocation.
- Burial Assistance: At least ₱10,000 if the witness dies due to their testimony.
- Healthcare and Education
- Medical Treatment: Free healthcare if the witness is harmed because of their participation.
- Free Education: Children of deceased or incapacitated witnesses get scholarship coverage from primary to college.
- Job Protection
- Witnesses cannot be demoted or terminated for missing work while testifying. They must continue to receive their regular salary.
- Legal Immunity (State Witnesses Only)
- State witnesses gain immunity from prosecution in relation to the crime they are testifying about—as long as they follow program rules.
How to Apply for the WPSBP
Applying to the program is strictly confidential. Here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Get the Application Form
Forms are available at the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Manila or through your Regional State Prosecutor’s Office.
Step 2: Submit the Following
- Completed application form
- Sworn statement outlining what you know about the crime
- Evidence of threats or risks to your safety or your family’s
Step 3: DOJ Evaluation
- The DOJ will assess if the crime is a grave felony
- They verify that the testimony is relevant and can be supported by facts
- If accepted, a Memorandum of Agreement is signed between the witness and DOJ
Step 4: Stay Compliant
- Witnesses must testify honestly and follow all rules.
- Violating program terms can lead to removal, and possibly charges for perjury or contempt.
Privacy and Legal Safeguards
Everything about the WPSBP—from application to participation—is protected by strict confidentiality laws. Sharing information about a participant without permission is a crime. Offenders can face imprisonment and disqualification from public office.
Success Rate and Oversight
In 2023, the WPSBP reported a 95.65% success rate in helping secure convictions in cases involving protected witnesses. The DOJ has also improved its vetting system to prevent abuse of the program and ensure that only credible witnesses are admitted.
Video: Witness Protection Program ng DOJ, nakikipagtulungan sa ICC para protektahan ang… | 24 Oras
The Department of Justice has teamed up with the International Criminal Court to protect Filipino witnesses involved in international cases.
This cooperation signals growing pressure from global bodies on domestic investigations linked to the drug war.
Officials are moving swiftly to provide security for those willing to testify, especially in high-profile hearings.
Online reactions show a mix of frustration, gratitude, and cautious hope for justice beyond borders.
While the DOJ faces doubts locally, its coordination with the ICC opens doors for truth to surface.
Final Thoughts
The Witness Protection, Security and Benefit Program gives brave individuals a chance to speak the truth—without fear.
It’s not just a tool for law enforcement—it’s a promise that the government stands with those who stand for justice. Whether you’re a victim, a witness, or someone aware of serious wrongdoing, knowing your rights under the WPSBP could one day save a life—including your own.