Good Conduct Time Allowance

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Alburo Law
May 06, 2026

Good conduct time allowance has been in existence since August 30, 1906 upon the passage of Act No. 1533. Said law provided for the diminution of sentences imposed upon convicted prisoners in consideration of good conduct and diligence. (Inmates of the New Bilibid Prison, Muntinlupa City v. Sec. Leila M. De Lima, DOJ, et. al., G.R. No. 212719, June 25, 2019)

The Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) system reflects the State’s policy of promoting  reformation and discipline among persons deprived of liberty. It operates as an incentive that rewards good behavior, participation in rehabilitation programs, and adherence to rules through corresponding deductions from the service of sentence.

Despite various amendments to the law, the standard of behavior in granting GCTA remains to be “good conduct.” In essence, the definition of what constitutes “good conduct” has been invariable through the years, thus:

  • Act No. 1533: not been guilty of a violation of discipline or any of the rules of the prison, and has labored with diligence and fidelity upon all such tasks as have been assigned to him.

  • Bureau of Corrections (BUCOR) Operating Manual dated March 30, 2000: “displays good behavior and who has no record of breach of discipline or violation of prison rules and regulations. 

  • IRR of R.A. No. 10592: the conspicuous and satisfactory behavior of a detention or convicted prisoner consisting of active involvement in rehabilitation programs, productive participation in authorized work activities or accomplishment of exemplary deeds coupled with faithful obedience to all prison/jail rules and regulations. Inmates of the New Bilibid Prison, Muntinlupa City v. Sec. Leila M. De Lima, DOJ, et. al., G.R. No. 212719, June 25, 2019)

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