Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 21) – The Department of Justice (DOJ) has lowered the bail amount for indigents facing criminal charges in court.
Prosecutors are now ordered to recommend 50% of the recommended bail as stated in the 2018 Bail Bond Guide or a maximum of ₱10,000 – whichever is lower.
In Department Circular No. 11 released on Feb. 20, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said a respondent may prove his or her indigency by presenting documents such as, but not limited to the following: latest income tax return, pay slip or other proof of income, or a certificate of indigency from the Department of Social Welfare and Development or the office of the barangay chairperson.
Remulla said the directive was prompted by overpopulation in the country’ s jail and detention facilities. He cited the 330% congestion rate in the New Bilibid Prison as reported by the Bureau of Corrections.
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The justice secretary also expressed frustration over weak cases being filed in court and individuals detained for bailable crimes but are unable to afford the amount set by the court.
“Makakatulong ito sa ating mga kababayan na kadalasang naapi sa dating sistema. Ngayon, binigyan natin ng importansya sa batas ang mga karaniwang tao,” Remulla said in a statement.
[Translation: This will help our countrymen who were often oppressed in the previous system. Today, we have given importance in law to common people.]
He said with the new policy, only quality criminal cases backed by credible evidence will be filed in court.
