The Department of Justice (DOJ) has revised the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the law on compensation for victims of wrongful imprisonment and violent crimes to improve access and responsiveness to victims’ needs.
The updated IRR of Republic Act No. 7309, which created the Board of Claims under the DOJ, aims to simplify the claims process, broaden the categories of eligible victims, and adopt digital payment systems to facilitate faster and more secure disbursement of financial aid.
Under the revised guidelines, compensation may now be claimed by individuals unjustly detained and later released without charges, or those arbitrarily or illegally detained by authorities.
Victims of violent or heinous crimes—including murder, homicide, serious physical injuries, kidnapping, rape, human trafficking, and violence against women and children—are also covered.
Claimants must submit documents such as a resolution on inquest or preliminary investigation, police report, medical certificate, valid government-issued ID, and a barangay certificate of residency.
Qualified victims of unjust imprisonment or detention may receive compensation of up to ₱1,000 for every month of incarceration, while victims of violent crimes may be granted a maximum of ₱10,000.
Justice Undersecretary Raul Vasquez emphasized that while financial compensation cannot undo the suffering of victims, the revised IRR affirms the state’s recognition of their dignity and rights.
“We cannot allow society to be indifferent to victims of crimes or the wrongfully accused,” he said.
According to the DOJ, government depository banks and digital platforms will now be used to disburse the compensation, making the process more efficient and inclusive.
This revision marks the first update to the IRR since the law was enacted in 1992.
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