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AMID COVID-19 CRISIS
Simplified rules on parole, executive clemency applications effective starting May 15
By NICOLE-ANNE C. LAGRIMAS,GMA NewsThe Board of Pardons and Parole's (BPP) interim guidelines simplifying the requirements and process for applications for parole and executive clemency will take effect on May 15, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Wednesday.
Guevarra said the interim guidelines will be published on April 30 and will take effect 15 days after.
The Justice chief recently approved the interim guidelines meant to expedite the release of qualified prisoners
through parole or executive clemency amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis.Several groups have called for the release of prisoners and detainees whose age and underlying medical conditions make them vulnerable to the virus.
The BPP's new interim guidelines apply to those qualified for parole or executive clemency, as well as applicants who are over 65 years old and have served at least five years of their sentence, or those who imprisonment is "inimical to their health," as attested by a physician certified by the Department of Health or designated by the Malacañang clinic director.
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Elderly and sickly inmates and those suffering from terminal or life-threatening diseases or with serious disability will be prioritized.
Persons convicted of heinous crimes or in cases involving illegal drugs, or those classified as "high risk" by the Bureau of Corrections are excluded.
A Department of Justice official earlier said they aim to process 200 applications a week under the interim guidelines.
Three correctional inmates who had tested positive for COVID-19 have died. A total of 50 inmates and one staff member have been infected. —KG, GMA News