GMA pardons elderly, commutes 13 sentences

MANILA, Philippines – President Arroyo has granted absolute pardon to an elderly woman and commutation of sentences to 13 individuals, Malacañang announced yesterday.

Granted absolute pardon for reason of old age was Sonia Temeña. Her pardon was recommended by the Department of Justice (DOJ) through the Board of Pardons and Parole.

The 13 granted commutation of sentences were Emmanuel Alagon, Guillermo Añonuevo, Segundo Añonuevo, Exequiel Curayag, Rolando Espiritu, Arturo Fernandez, Noreen Otero, Oscar Quilona, Virgilio Rocafor, Jesus Saing, Juanita Sotero, Edwin Suelto and Cornelio Valdepeña.

Under Philippine law, only the President has the power to grant pardon or commute sentences of prisoners.

The recommendation by the DOJ to the President to pardon prisoners or shorten their jail terms is based on several considerations such as old age, health, time served, and good behavior. – Marvin Sy