BuCor Releases 1,156 PDLs to Ease Prison Congestion

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has released a total of 1,156 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) over the past month, as part of ongoing efforts to decongest the country's correctional facilities. A batch of 54 more PDLs were released on Friday, with culmination rites held at various correctional facilities nationwide. The New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa saw the highest number of releases with 437 individuals. This was followed by the Davao Prison and Penal Farm with 279, the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm with 141, and the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm with 102. Other correctional institutions that contributed to the releases include the San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm with 91, the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong with 57, the Leyte Regional Prison with 48, and CIW Mindanao with one. According to BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr., the primary reason for the releases was expired sentences, accounting for 929 individuals. Other categories included 83 acquittals, 80 paroles, 48 released through writs of habeas corpus, 15 granted probation, and one through transfer of custody. Catapang Jr. also highlighted the inclusion of 79 Muslim PDLs among those released, emphasizing BuCor’s commitment to equitable treatment and support for minority groups within the penal system. This reflects a broader push for inclusivity and respect for diverse communities in the Philippines. Sergio Calizo Jr., Chairman of the Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP), reminded paroled PDLs of their obligation to report to the Parole and Probation Administration Office, underscoring the importance of continued supervision and support for successful reintegration into society. Since June 30, 2022, under the current Marcos administration, a total of 33,919 PDLs have been released. This figure includes 2,032 Muslim PDLs, with 79 of them released from June 12 to the present. These releases aim not only to alleviate overcrowding but also to facilitate the reintegration of PDLs into society, potentially contributing to a reduction in recidivism. Prison congestion has been a long-standing challenge in the Philippines, and these measures represent a significant step towards protecting human rights and fostering a more inclusive society. The stability of domestic social infrastructure, particularly in a country with a large overseas Filipino worker population, can indirectly influence economic activities and the daily lives of its citizens.