The Supreme Court has granted clemency to a Negrense lawyer by setting aside a sentence of imprisonment for indirect contempt of court.

In its resolution, the SC said the penalty of imprisonment of 20 days imposed on lawyer Romulo A. Deles is set aside and in its stead he is suspended from the practice of law for 60 days immediately upon his receipt of the resolution promulgated on March 23.

Deles had been sentenced to 20 days imprisonment for joining rallies and demonstrations within the immediate vicinity of the Bacolod Hall of Justice where placards, posters and streamers were displayed, the SC said. Among the messages displayed during the rallies, the SC noted, was: "Judge Labayen - Judge Diamante, Judge Hilario - Judge Rojo - Judge Demonteverde - Hoodlums in Robes - Stop Demolition of Farmers (sic) Beneficiaries Houses - Pls. do not usurp the powers of DAR, PARAD and DARAB."

The SC said Deles appeared to be contrite and sincere in his plea for clemency.*CPG

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