Duterte wants SC to clarify GCTA law

Saying the good conduct time allowance (GCTA) law can be subject to various interpretations, President Rodrigo Duterte said the government will ask the Supreme Court to clarify its nebulous provisions.

"This law is not equivocal, kaya can be subject of many interpretations," Duterte said in an exclusive report by Marisol Abdurahman on GMA News' 24 Oras."

"If it is a subject of many interpretations and even (Justice) Secretary (Menardo)  Guevarra said we will ask for clarification from the Supreme Court that means that the law is not very clear," Duterte added.

The GCTA law or Republic Act 10592 was thrust at the center of controversy following reports about the looming release of convicted murderer-rapist Antonio Sanchez.

One of the contentious points centered on whether or not those convicted of heinous crimes should benefit from the GCTA.

Over 1,900 inmates were released because of the GCTA, which entitles select inmates to reduced prison terms in exchange for good conduct.

Duterte last week ordered them to surrender in 15 days, or be considered fugitives.

Interviewed by GMA News in a restaurant in Davao City with Senator Bong Go, Duterte said he wanted the sentence of the released inmates be recomputed, but said this does not include the convicts of heinous crimes.

"Sabi ko, di ko kayo kulungin. I'm just asking you to come back. Have your sentence recomputed and if you fall within the category to be released, you can go. For the heinous crimes, let me think about it. Either I set you free or I'll drop you sa Pasig River," he said.

For those who will not turn themselves in, he said, "My other order is to get you dead or alive."

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra earlier said the GCTA law may have to be amended to include a clear classification of whether the law should be on reformative and rehabilitative side, or punitive or retributive, and clear definition of "heinous crimes."

During the Senate investigation, several witnesses testified about the existence of the so-called GCTA for sale scheme, which prisoners can avail to facilitate their early release.

Duterte said all officials and employees of the Bureau of Corrections allegedly linked in the controversy will be investigated.

"Meron yan. meron yan sigurado ako.  Well, they will be investigated.  . . .They have to face the music . . .Those who participated in the proceedings, those who prepared the document, made the study and made the recommendation," he said.

The GCTA controversy has resulted in the firing of BuCor chief Nicanor Faeldon for "disobeying" the president's order.  Despite this, Duterte said he still believes in the former military officer. —LDF, GMA News