In a bid to decongest prison facilities, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), headed by the Director General, GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR, AFP (Ret.), CESE, CCLH conducted a culminating activity for 73 released Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) at the Social Hall, New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Reservation, Muntinlupa City, today, December 20, 2023.
With the theme, “Kalayaang Handog sa Panahon ng Kapaskohan, Pagbalik sa Pamilya at Lipunang Kinabibilangan Tungo sa Magandang Kinabukasan”, the 73 released today are included in the total number of 954 PDL released Bureauwide since October 28, 2023. This is the result of the simultaneous culminating program facilitated by the External Affairs Section (EAS) of all Prison and Penal Farms (PPFs). This includes 39 from the NBP, 16 from Davao Prison and Penal Farm (DPPF), eight 8 from Correctional Institution for Women (CIW), four (4) from Leyte Regional Prison, four (4) from Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm (SPPF), and two (2) from San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SRPPF).
Of the 73 released, 62 have served out their sentences with Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA), 8 are out on parole, two (2) are due to Expiration of Maximum Sentence with GCTA/Due to Pending Case, and one released due to Expiration of Maximum Sentence.
The program was attended by USEC DEO L. MARCO, Department of Justice, on behalf of SECRETARY JESUS CRISPIN C. REMULLA, ATTY. PERSIDA RUEDA-ACOSTA, D.S.D, Chief, Public Attorney’s Office, DG CATAPANG, and distinguished Key Officials, and personnel of the Bureau.
The Bureau’s commitment to reform and reintegrate individuals into society was exemplified as these former PDL were given their freedom, making it a truly special Christmas for them and their loved ones. The BuCor, led by DG CATAPANG, demonstrated dedication to improving the lives of those within the criminal justice system, ensuring that the spirit of compassion and second chances prevailed during this festive season.
