The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued an order lowering the recommended bail for indigent individuals who are convicted in criminal cases.
Under Department Circular No. 11, dated February 20 and signed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla, it said that the bail must be 50 percent lower or set at the amount of Php 10,000, whichever is lower.
"In the interest of social justice and to afford justice for all, and in line with existing laws, all prosecutors in the Department shall henceforth consider the financial capacity of the accused when recommending the amount of bail in a criminal information for filing in court," the order reads.
The recommended bail is applicable to all cases undergoing inquest or preliminary investigation proceedings.
But the DOJ noted that there should be evidence that proves that an individual is indigent.
Those who claim that they are indigent must submit the following:
- latest income tax or pay slip or other suitable proof of income
- certificate of indigency from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
- certificate of indigency or no income from the Office of the Punong Barangay/Barangay Chairperson having jurisdiction over the residence of the respondent
According to the Justice Department, it lowered bail to also address the overpopulation of jails and detention facilities.
