Question & AnswerQ&A (MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. 177)
The main purpose of Memorandum Order No. 177 is to direct the Department of Justice to observe a bail bond guide for qualified theft cases, particularly to prohibit recommending bail for qualified theft where the value of the stolen property is five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00) and above.
Prosecutors, as officers of the court, are duty bound to assist the courts by recommending the amount of bail to be granted.
No, bail is not to be recommended for qualified theft where the aggregate value of the property stolen is five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00) or above.
Article 310 in relation to Article 309 imposes the penalty of reclusion perpetua for qualified theft when the evidence of guilt is strong.
Yes, it amends Department of Justice Circular No. 74 dated November 6, 2001, specifically regarding the bail bond guide involving crimes of qualified theft.
The Department of Justice is directed to constitute a committee to modify the 2000 Bail Bond Guide to revise the recommended amounts of bail as necessary, particularly for qualified theft cases.
If any provision is declared invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions not affected shall continue to be in full force and effect.
It took effect immediately on June 28, 2005.
The semiconductor and electronic industries are specifically mentioned as being affected, industries that provide seventy percent (70%) of the country's exports.
GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO signed the order as the President of the Philippines.