Manila: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) announced on Monday that between 5,000 to 10,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDL) could potentially be released before Christmas. This anticipated release results from the finalization of the implementing rules and regulations for the application of Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) to those convicted of heinous crimes, as stated by BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. in a news release. According to Philippines News Agency, the Supreme Court's en banc decision on April 3 declared that any convicted prisoner is entitled to GCTA, provided they are housed in a penal institution, rehabilitation or detention center, or any other local jail. The ruling could benefit 27,311 individuals convicted of heinous crimes across various correctional facilities nationwide, contingent upon their good conduct and having served more than half of their sentences. Of these individuals, 9,168 are eligible for release if the calculation is based on their detention date, whil e 5,039 are eligible if based on the date they were received in BuCor facilities. Priority will be given to those who are sickly, terminally ill, and those aged 70 and above. Between October 22 and November 25, BuCor has already released 500 PDLs, including 104 individuals present at Monday's concluding activity. Among those released, 347 had served their maximum sentences, 110 were acquitted, 21 received probation, 20 were granted parole, one was allowed bail, and another was released through habeas corpus. Catapang highlighted the bureau's aim to build robust partnerships with the business sector to provide job opportunities that empower former inmates, enabling them to lead productive lives and contribute to their communities. San Miguel Corporation, led by business executive Ramon S. Ang, and BF One Foods Inc., represented by President Antonio Sebastian Escalante, have responded positively to this initiative. The BuCor is also seeking enhanced collaboration with various government agencies, including l ocal government units in areas where former PDLs will be reintegrated. Partners include the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and other stakeholders from the private sector, to support efforts in reforming and reintegrating PDLs.