On 11 June 2026, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) held a bureauwide Culminating Activity for the release of 40 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL). The activity was part of a total of 803 releases from 13 May to 11 June 2026. The event was spearheaded by the Directorate for External Relations and Reintegration Services (DERRS), under the leadership of MS MARIA CIELO O MONSALUD, Director of DERRS, and C/CINSP EUSEBIO B DEL ROSARIO, Deputy Director of DERRS, in coordination with the External Affairs Sections (EAS) of all Operating Prisons and Penal Farms (OPPFs). The activity was held in front of the Administration Building, National Headquarters (NHQ), New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Reservation, Muntinlupa City.
The event was honored by the presence of the following esteemed guests: HONORABLE DEO L MARCO, Undersecretary, Department of Justice (DOJ); ATTY. RONALD MACOROL, Public Attorney IV, Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of Special and Appealed Cases Service (SACS) of PAO; ATTY. DEMITEER U HUERTA, Public Attorney IV, PAO; ENGR. ELMER F DUCUSIN, Supervising Labor and Employment Officer, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE); MARY JANE B NOVENCIDO, Supervising Probation and Parole Officer, Parole and Probation Administration (PPA); and HONORABLE ALMARIM C TILLAH, AL HAJ, President of the Muslim Association of the Philippines.
C/CSUPT CELSO S BRAVO, Chief, Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE), delivered the welcome remarks by highlighting the significance of the 128th Philippine Independence Day, emphasizing that the release of the PDL reflects the value of freedom and the opportunity for renewal, growth, and reintegration into society, while encouraging to embrace the challenges ahead with courage and determination. He also emphasized that BuCor remains committed to supporting their reintegration and continues to provide opportunities for change and second chances.
BuCor Director General, GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR., AFP (Ret), CESE, CCLH, highlighted the significance of the activity in line with the celebration of Independence Day, emphasizing the value of freedom and expressing hope that the released PDL would embrace the opportunity to begin a new chapter in life. Appreciation was likewise extended to all BuCor personnel for their dedication and support in facilitating the release process and strengthening the Bureau’s reintegration efforts for the benefit of the PDL and their families. The Guest of Honor and Speaker was formally introduced, with recognition of the importance of their participation in providing inspiration and reinforcing BuCor’s continued commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration.
USEC MARCO delivered the message on behalf of HONORABLE FREDDERICK A VIDA, Secretary of Justice, conveyed that Independence Day serves as a reminder of the value of freedom, an achievement built on sacrifice, perseverance, and hope. He also extended appreciation to BuCor for its compassionate corrections system and its continued efforts in preparing PDL for successful reintegration as productive members of society, while encouraging them to embrace the opportunity for a fresh start and to contribute positively to their families, communities, and the nation.
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 PDL are given the opportunity to reclaim their lives with dignity, contribute positively to their families, and become productive members of society.
A total of 803 PDL were released during activities held at various Operating Prison and Penal Farms (OPPFs): 284 from New Bilibid Prison (NBP), 150 from Davao Prison and Penal Farm (DPPF), 100 from Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm (SPPF), 86 from Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF), 69 from Leyte Regional Prison (LRP), 59 from Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City, and 55 from San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SRPPF).
The activity was made possible through the strong support and strategic direction of DG CATAPANG JR., whose leadership continues to strengthen and expand programs for PDL. Through these initiatives, the Bureau reaffirms its commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for successful reintegration and productive return to the community.
CTO1 Jaycille B Cagoco
Contributor
