ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF GOOD CONDUCT TIME ALLOWANCE (GCTA) LAW IN NEW BILIBID PRISON

Abstract

The study aimed to evaluate the implementation of the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) law in New Bilibid Prison, as outlined in Republic Act No. 10592. Specifically, the study sought to answer the following questions:  What is the demographic profile of the respondents, including age, gender, educational attainment, and length of service? How do the respondents assess the implementation of the GCTA law in New Bilibid Prison in terms of: Procedures: The steps involved in granting good conduct credits. Criteria: The standards or conditions inmates must meet to qualify for GCTA. Qualifications: The specific requirements for eligibility under the law. Application: The process through which inmates apply for good conduct credits. Knowledge: The level of awareness and understanding inmates have regarding the GCTA law. This study aims to offer valuable insights into the effectiveness of the GCTA law's implementation, highlighting areas of strength and identifying potential areas for improvement in the process. This research utilized a quantitative approach, specifically a descriptive research design, to assess the relevant variables. The study focused on fifty (50) Correction Officers assigned to New Bilibid Prison, selected through purposive sampling. The researchers first sought approval to conduct the study by submitting a formal request letter. Once permission was granted, the survey questionnaires were distributed to the selected Correction Officers. The respondents were given adequate time to complete the questionnaires, after which the completed surveys were collected for analysis and interpretation. All surveys were successfully retrieved and analyzed. The following measures are proposed to address the challenges encountered in the implementation of the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) Law at New Bilibid Prison:  Implement a Digital Tracking System: Develop and invest in a digital system to precisely track and apply GCTA points based on the behavior of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). This will enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the GCTA process.  Secure Additional Funding: Request additional financial support for acquiring the necessary digital system, as well as funding for the recruitment of additional staff to manage the GCTA process and ensure its proper implementation.  Regular Audits and Monitoring: Conduct routine audits to verify that GCTA credits are being calculated and awarded accurately, ensuring transparency and fairness in the awarding process. This will help identify and correct any discrepancies or errors in the application of the law. To ensure the safety of record files and the accurate granting of Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) to Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at New Bilibid Prison, it is recommended to acquire additional devices to effectively calculate the reduced days for PDLs, particularly for those who have been incarcerated for extended periods. Moreover, securing additional funds would not only enhance the security measures for correction officers but also contribute to improving the welfare of PDLs, including providing necessary resources for personal hygiene. This would help prevent the spread of diseases and promote better health among the incarcerated population.