Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 15) — Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said the Department of Justice needs “at least one more week” to study calls to release low-risk offenders amid the threat of COVID-19.
“This matter is multi-faceted,” Guevarra said. “The pros and the cons have to be carefully evaluated.”
President Rodrigo Duterte said in his third weekly report to Congress that the Bureau of Corrections has not yet recorded a COVID-19 case in its facilities across the country, but one of its personnel and two prisoners are considered persons under investigation.
Eighty of its personnel and 74 prisoners are also considered persons under monitoring
Guevarra explained that whatever would be their recommendation is still up for the President’s approval.
“It’s an act of grace that is vested in the Chief Executive,” Guevarra said.
He clarified that for detainees who are awaiting trial, the courts have the discretion for their release.
But for those serving their sentences, Guevarra said they may be released either through Good Conduct Time Allowance, parole or executive clemency.
“All of which go through a process,” he added.
Guevarra said the term “low-risk offenders” may refer to the gravity — or lack of gravity — of the offenses committed or charged.
“Or it could refer to the general conduct shown by the person detained,” he said.
The Supreme Court will tackle on Friday a petition seeking the release of low-risk prisoners on humanitarian grounds.
Twenty-two inmates sought for their temporary liberty amid the coronavirus pandemic.
They argued the highly-contagious virus will most likely infect those who are elderly, sickly, and pregnant inside jails.
“Petitioners are praying for a fair chance at surviving the devastating impact of the COVID-19 outbreak in spaces that are not blighted with overcrowding and lack of access to hygiene measures and medical care,” read the petition.
