In line with its mandate to promote restorative justice and successful reintegration, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) released a total of 1,239 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) from 14 February 2026 to 28 March 2026.
A culminating activity was held on 28 March 2026 at the Administration Building façade of the National Headquarters (NHQ) to formally recognize the released PDL and mark their transition back into society.
The activity was spearheaded by the Directorate for External Relations and Reintegration Services (DERRS) under the leadership of CT/SSUPT NOEL M MARQUEZ, DVM, DPA, Director of DERRS, with 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 graced by distinguished officials from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and partner agencies, including HON. FREDDERICK A. VIDA, Secretary of Justice (SOJ); HON. DEO L. MARCO, Undersecretary; HON. GARNEY M. CANDELARIA, Undersecretary; and HON. FRANCIS JOHN L. TEJANO, Assistant Secretary. Also present were ATTY. RACHEL D. RUELO and MS. JOSEFINA SANTOS, Board Members of the Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP); ATTY. NAZARIO C. BANCORO, JR., Public Attorney IV of the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO); MR. ADELINO B. SUYU JR., Chief, Probation Officer; MS. LUELLA ABIAN, Senior Labor and Employment Officer of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE); ATTY. RONN MICHAEL TEJANO, Mayor of Mapanas, Northern Samar; HON. BIENVENIDO TEJANO, Philippine Ambassador to the Independent State of Papua New Guinea; and GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR., AFP (Ret.), CESE, CCLH, Director General of BuCor, together with other BuCor key officials.
DG CATAPANG formally introduced the Guest of Honor and Speaker, SOJ VIDA, and emphasized that the activity marks a significant milestone in the lives of the released PDL, symbolizing a new beginning and renewed hope.
In his message, SOJ VIDA underscored the value of time and transformation, stressing that every moment is meaningful in both personal and societal contexts. He acknowledged the journey of the PDL and encouraged them to carry forward the lessons and skills they have gained during their incarceration as they embark on a new chapter in their lives.
He further emphasized that reintegration requires acceptance of change and a commitment to personal growth, highlighting that life offers second chances to those willing to rise above past mistakes. SOJ VIDA reminded the released individuals that they are no longer PDL, but free citizens, and urged them to embrace their renewed role in society with responsibility and determination.
The BuCor reaffirms its commitment to strengthening reformation and reintegration programs through sustained collaboration with partner agencies, ensuring that released individuals are equipped with the necessary support systems to become productive members of the community.
