Muntinlupa: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has successfully released 1,009 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) between November 1 and December 12, increasing the total number of released individuals to 28,616 since the start of the Marcos administration.

According to Philippines News Agency, a ceremony at the BuCor headquarters in Muntinlupa City on Friday saw Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida address the newly released individuals. He urged them to consider their loved ones when making decisions that could potentially lead them astray. Vida called on the public to provide support and second chances to those reintegrating into society, stressing that everyone deserves an opportunity for rehabilitation.

Furthermore, Vida assured the released PDLs that the Department of Justice and BuCor would be on hand to assist them with the necessary documentation to facilitate a smooth transition back into civilian life.

BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. noted that the released PDLs possess valuable skills acquired through training programs conducted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) during their time in custody.

The recently released individuals came from various facilities: New Bilibid Prison (360), Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) (56), Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm (108), Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (98), Leyte Regional Prison (89), Davao Prison and Penal Farm (153), and San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (145).