‘Freed’ convict turns self in to Laguna cops

SAN PEDRO CITY –– A man sentenced to life imprisonment but was released last month through the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) program, surrendered to policemen in Rizal town in Laguna province on Friday.

Eddie Isleta, 62, told the police that had heard about the recent pronouncement of President Duterte ordering convicts released from the National Bilibid Prison to turn themselves in within 15 days or be considered fugitives from the law.

Duterte gave the order this week amid controversies surrounding the GCTA and the release of thousands previously convicted for heinous crimes.

Fearing for his security, Isleta sought help from former Rizal Mayor Rolen Urriquia, who, in turn, went with him to the police station around 8 a.m. Friday, said investigator Corporal Gary Matuguinas.

The problem now, Matuguinas said, was it was not clear to them whether to detain Isleta or turn him over to the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).

“We are waiting for orders from our superiors. We have coordinated with the BuCor,” he added in a phone interview.

Police said Isleta was convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment on Dec. 23, 1996.

Isleta was released on August 19./lzb