BuCor Conducts Culminating Activity for Released PsDL
On 12 December 2025, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) held a Culminating Activity with the theme, “Panibagong Simula, Panibagong Pag-asa” for the release of twenty-three (23) Persons Deprived of Liberty (PsDL). This release formed part of a total of one-thousand nine (1,009) released from 01 November to 12 December 2025.
The activity was held at the Social Hall, National Headquarters (NHQ) in Muntinlupa City, spearheaded by the Directorate for External Relations and Reintegration Services (DERRS), under the guidance of CT/SUPT NOEL M MARQUEZ, DVM, DPA, Director of DERRS, and CT/INSP STELLA MAY C LAT, Deputy Director of DERRS, in coordination with the External Affairs Sections (EAS) of all Operating Prisons and Penal Farms (OPPFs).
The event was honored by the presence of esteemed guests HON. FREDDERICK A VIDA, Acting Secretary, Department of Justice (DOJ); HON. DEO L MARCO, Undersecretary, DOJ; HON. FRANCIS JOHN L TEJANO, Assistant Secretary, DOJ; HON. SERGIO CALIZO JR., Chairperson, Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP); ATTY. RONALD R MACOROL, Public Attorney IV OIC, Special and Appealed Cases Services (SACS), and ATTY. MICHELLE ANNE F YANGO, Public Attorney IV, representative from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO); and GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR., AFP (Ret.), CESE, CCLH, Director General, BuCor, along with other BuCor key officials.
The program began with the welcome remarks from ASEC GIL T TORRALBA, Deputy Director General for Security and Operations (DDGSO), who warmly greeted the guests and PsDL preparing for reintegration. He highlighted the theme, “Panibagong Simula, Panibagong Pag-asa,” describing the release as a shared victory for the PsDL, their families, and the supporting communities. He expressed gratitude to BuCor personnel, partner agencies, and families, and emphasized that there is always an opportunity for change, concluding his message with a warm Christmas greeting to all.
DG CATAPANG formally introduced the Guest of Honor and Speaker, HON. VIDA. Thereafter, he conveyed his message, sharing that the occasion was truly remarkable as it marked a day filled with hope and fresh beginnings for those starting a new chapter in their lives. He emphasized that justice is not measured solely by accountability, but also by the opportunities provided for individuals to rebuild their lives, be restored, and return to society with dignity.
HON. VIDA delivered an inspiring message to the released PsDL, noting that he personally attended the activity as it was his first release ceremony since assuming office as Acting Secretary of the DOJ. He recognized their courage and determination to start and build a new meaningful life despite past challenges. He encouraged them to remain focused, avoid actions that could lead back to incarceration, embrace humility, and draw lessons from their past experiences. He also highlighted the importance of faith, urging the PsDL to trust in God’s guidance as they rebuild their lives.
The message served as both an inspiration and a reminder that while past mistakes cannot be undone, the future remains full of possibilities. Through perseverance, determination, and wise decision-making, the released PsDL are given the opportunity to reclaim their lives with dignity, contribute positively to their families, and become productive members of society.
Grooming Kits, Certificates of Discharge, Gratuity, and Transportation Allowances were distributed to the released PsDL. This was followed by a photo session with the guests and BuCor officials.
Through the leadership of DG CATAPANG, the release of the PsDL marked a significant milestone in BuCor’s continuing commitment to restoring lives and enabling individuals to return to their families and communities with renewed hope.
Ms. Michelle Angela N. Andrada
Contributor
