Question

In 2017, the Philippine legislature enacted Republic Act No. 1234, which criminalized the possession of a certain prohibited substance. This law imposed severe penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines.

In 2022, Congress passed Republic Act No. 5678, which repealed Republic Act No. 1234. The new law stated that the possession of the previously prohibited substance is no longer a crime.

John was arrested in 2019 for the possession of the prohibited substance and was subsequently convicted under Republic Act No. 1234. However, his case is still pending appeal as of 2023.

Discuss the effect and application of the repeal of laws on John's case. Will the repeal of Republic Act No. 1234 have any impact on his conviction? Explain your answer.