LIFE IMPRISONMENT v. RECLUSION PERPETUA: THE DISTINCTIONS

Reclusion perpetua and life imprisonment are both penalties but differ in nature, effects and circumstances.

Reclusion Perpetua is a penalty prescribed by the Revised Penal Code but Life Imprisonment is a penalty provided under a special penal law.

Reclusion Perpetua has a duration of 20 years and 1 days to 40 years, while life imprisonment has a no fixed duration.

Reclusion Perpetua has accessory penalties such as civil interdiction and Perpetual Absolute Disqualification, while life imprisonment does not have accessory penalties.

Examples of crimes punishable by Reclusion Perpetua under the Revised Penal Code are murder, robbery with homicide and rape. Examples of crimes punishable by life imprisonment are plunder and certain violations of RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.