Manila: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has released a total of 2,950 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from April 1 to June 11, bringing to 23,579 the number of PDLs released under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

According to Philippines News Agency, among those released were 248 from the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City; four from CIW Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm; 42 from CIW Mindanao; 469 from Davao Prison and Penal Farm; 356 from Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm; 134 from Leyte Regional Prison; 1,204 from New Bilibid Prison; 180 from Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm; and 313 from San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm.

In a statement, BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for its ruling to include persons convicted of heinous crimes in the coverage of Republic Act (RA) 10592, or the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) law, which facilitated the early release of these PDLs.

Catapang highlighted that the release of PDLs signifies a critical shift in the Philippine correctional philosophy towards rehabilitation rather than punishment. He emphasized that by facilitating the reintegration of PDLs into society, the government not only aids these individuals in reclaiming their lives but also contributes to creating safer communities. Proper reintegration programs can significantly decrease recidivism rates, allowing for better engagement with society and improved public safety.

He further noted that as the country advances, the focus on rehabilitation and reintegration promises not only to transform lives but also to make strides toward a more just and equitable society.