Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called for the digitalization and streamlining of services to reduce delays in the criminal justice system, as the country held its first jail decongestion summit.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called for the digitalization and streamlining of services to reduce delays in the criminal justice system, as the country held its first jail decongestion summit.
Marcos said he sees the adoption of technologies as a key in addressing prison overcrowding, which increases health and safety risks among prisoners.
“By embracing technology and innovative practices, we can enhance our efficiency, reduce delays, and ensure swift and fair legal proceedings,” said the president in a speech delivered by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, while he remains in isolation due to COVID-19.
He made the call to member agencies of the Justice Sector Coordinating Council, which spearheaded the summit that brings together government agencies, international organizations, legal experts, and advocates to tackle chronic jail congestion in the country.
“Indeed, it would require a whole-of-government approach to ensure the efficient, effective, and compassionate administration of justice in the country,” Marcos said.
Among the government’s moves to decongest jails is the annual recommendation of executive clemency to qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
Department of Justice (DOJ) spokesperson Mico Clavano earlier said they expect close to 1,000 PDLs will be pardoned this Christmas, similar to last year’s number.
Government data showed there were 856 PDLs recommended for executive clemency from July 2022 to October 2023. This count included 794 qualified for commutation of sentence, one for absolute pardon, and 61 for conditional pardon without parole condition.
The government also has plans to establish at least 16 regional jails across the country to ease crowding in prisons.
