THE Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) is set to release between 5,000 and 10,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) before Christmas, following the finalization of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the good conduct time allowance (GCTA) applicable to those convicted of heinous crimes.
This was announced by BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. during a concluding ceremony held Monday at the BuCor Administrative Building in the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Compound.
The announcement came as BuCor marked the release of 500 PDLs between Oct. 22 and Nov. 25. Of the number, 104 ex-PDLs participated in the concluding activity.
BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr.
Of the 500 released, 347 had completed their maximum sentences, 110 were acquitted, 21 received probation, 20 were granted parole, one was allowed bail, and another was released through habeas corpus.
The released PDLs came from various facilities nationwide, including 135 from the NBP Maximum Security Camp, 69 from the NBP Medium Security Camp, 20 from the NBP Minimum Security Camp, 39 from the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City, nine from the CIW in Mindanao, 53 from the Davao Prison and Penal Farm, 41 from the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm, 20 from the Leyte Regional Prison, 14 from the Reception and Diagnostic Center of the NBP, 44 from the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm, and 56 from San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm.
The mass release aims to decongest prison facilities while promoting reform and rehabilitation for PDLs.
Catapang also cited BuCor’s intention to foster stronger partnerships with the business sector to empower former individuals deprived of liberty, thereby enabling them to lead productive lives and make positive contributions to their communities through job opportunities.
He said, so far, responses have come from San Miguel Corp., under the leadership of business executive Ramon Ang, and BF One Foods Inc., represented by its president Antonio Sebastian Escalante.
The BuCor chief also highlighted the need for enhanced collaboration with various government agencies, including local government units, particularly in areas where individuals deprived of liberty will be reintegrated.
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