DoJ, DILG revise IRR to expand GCTA eligibility for PDLs

The Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) have revised the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Revised Penal Code, making all persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), including those convicted of heinous crimes, eligible for Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA).

Justice Undersecretary Raul T. Vasquez stated that this revision aims to decongest correctional facilities and jails.

Approximately 8,000 PDLs under the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and 1,000 under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology are expected to benefit from these changes.

BuCor Director-General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. reported that congestion rates at New Bilibid Prison have decreased from 350% to 250%, with further reductions anticipated as new facilities are completed.

Modernization initiatives by BuCor include expanding e-dalaw systems, livelihood programs, and rehabilitation mechanisms for prisoners, streamlining parole processes, and constructing penal facilities nationwide.