Question & AnswerQ&A (Act No. 1533)
The Act provides for the diminution of sentences for prisoners convicted of any offense and sentenced for a definite term of more than thirty days and less than life, in consideration of good conduct and diligence.
Each convict sentenced for a definite term of more than thirty days and less than life in a provincial or Insular jail or prison is entitled to sentence diminution, provided they exhibit good conduct and diligence.
A prisoner is allowed a deduction of five days from their sentence for each full month of good conduct during the first two years.
After serving two full years of a sentence, the deduction is eight days for each month thereafter.
After five full years, the deduction increases to ten days for each month thereafter.
After ten full years, the deduction is fifteen days for each month thereafter.
The prisoner forfeits all time gained for the month of the violation and may lose a portion or all of previously gained time, depending on the severity and frequency of the offenses.
Yes, for especially meritorious conduct or special mitigating circumstances, the prisoner may have all or part of the forfeited time restored.
Yes, prisoners are entitled to the same deductions for good conduct each month even if prevented from laboring due to sickness, infirmity, or other causes not their fault.
Yes, all prisoners serving sentences at the time the Act went into effect are entitled to diminution of their sentences for time served since January 1, 1900.
The wardens or officers in charge of Insular or provincial jails or prisons, under rules prescribed by the Secretary of Public Instruction, are responsible for records and carrying out the Act's provisions.
Yes, detention prisoners who voluntarily offer to perform labor are entitled to sentence credits according to the Act, which will be deducted from their sentence if convicted.