Bureau of Corrections Director Oscar Calderon said former Rep Romeo Jalosjos was freed two years after President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo cut his sentence to 16 years. He served 13 years and received three years' credit for good behavior, Calderon said.

Jalosjos, 68, also was convicted on six counts of child molestation and sentenced to eight to 15 years for each. The clemency covered that, too.

The women's rights group Gabriela accused Arroyo of making a mockery of justice, saying she was currying favor with the rich and powerful.

The wealthy Jalosjos family, which operates one of the country's finest beach resorts, supported Arroyo's presidential campaign in 2004. Jalosjos' younger brother and younger sister are representatives of two districts in his home province, Zamboanga del Norte.

'If powerful people commit crime and violence, and these powerful people could give favors to Malacanang (the presidential palace), then they can maneuver anything,' Gabriela secretary general Emily de Jesus said.

Arroyo's press secretary, Cerge Remonde, denied the charges, saying 'politics had nothing to do' with Jalosjos' release.

He said the Bureau of Pardons and Parole recommended the move, which was approved by the justice secretary.

Unlike most other prisoners, the former congressman lived in relative luxury. Controversy erupted in 1998 when it was discovered that some jail officials allowed him hotel-like perks in his cell, including a color TV, stereo, treadmill and private kitchen. He also was allowed to build a tennis court and a hamburger store in the prison compound.

Speaking to reporters, Jalosjos denied his clout won him early release. -- AP