GCTA tweak setting free 9K PDLs

The Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) have signed the 2024 revised implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for Republic Act 10592, also known as the Revised Penal Code, in a bid to address jail congestion and provide second chances for inmates.

The updated IRR now allows persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) convicted of heinous crimes to earn Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) credits for reduced sentences.

According to DoJ Undersecretary Vasquez, approximately 8,000 Bureau of Correction (BuCor) inmates and 1,000 Bureau of Jail Management and Penology detainees are expected to benefit from the revised rules.

He noted that the Supreme Court’s decision to extend GCTA benefits to heinous crime convicts aligns with the justice system’s emphasis on rehabilitation.

BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said the revised IRR brings hope to inmates frustrated by prolonged court hearings and delayed releases.

Catapang also reported significant progress in reducing congestion at the New Bilibid Prison, from a rate of 350 percent to 250 percent.

He detailed ongoing plans to construct additional facilities nationwide and shared updates on expanded e-dalaw systems, livelihood programs, and improved rehabilitation mechanisms for inmates.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla has pledged full support for the enforcement of the new IRR.

“The DILG affirms its commitment to the implementation of the revised IRR as we anticipate improvements in prison decongestion in the upcoming years,” Remulla said.

According to the BJMP, the Philippines currently faces a jail congestion rate of 306 percent. As of 31 October 2024, the jail population in 482 BJMP-controlled facilities stands at 117,767, compared to an ideal capacity of 33,325.