In a recent development, a total of 126 inmates from various penal institutions have been released as part of the country’s Independence Day Celebration. The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has stated that since the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., 14,324 individuals have already been released.
The government has been working to reduce the jail population, especially focusing on inmates who have overstayed their time in prison. The congestion rate in Bilibid alone was at 377 percent, with an occupancy rate of 477 percent in 2023 despite a capacity of only 6,435 inmates.
BuCor, along with the Public Attorneys Office (PAO) and the Board of Pardons and Parole, has been reviewing records of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) to determine those who have completed their sentences and are eligible for pardon or parole.
The 126 released inmates were from various institutions including the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong and Mindanao, Davao Prison and Penal Farm, and more. Reasons for release included acquittal, conditional pardon, expiration of maximum sentence, probation, and parole.
BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. reminded the inmates to make the most of this second chance given to them by the government. In addition to the releases, 95 personnel will be promoted as a way to recognize and reward workers who have been valuable assets to the agency.
Overall, the efforts to reduce prison populations and provide opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration are ongoing, with a focus on ensuring that those who have served their time are given a fair chance to start anew.
