Gov’t expediting parole for qualified convicts

The government is expediting the processing of probation and parole applications for qualified convicts to decongest jails amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed that the DOJ has approved new simplified rules for probation and parole.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra stated that interim guidelines simplifying requirements and processes will take effect on May 15, following their publication on April 30.

The new guidelines aim to expedite the release of vulnerable prisoners, including those over 65 years old who have served at least five years of their sentence or whose health is threatened by imprisonment.