1,000 prisoners set for release

RIGHT TO SUFFRAGE Persons deprived of liberty inside the Zamboanga City Reformatory Center, shown in this undated photo, can now vote for those running for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan seats in Barangay Zone 1, where the center is located. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF ZAMBOANGA

Photo courtesy of the City Government of Zamboanga

MANILA, Philippines — Department of Justice (DOJ) spokesperson Asec. Mico Clavano said about 1,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDL) are expected to be released from prisons in 2023.

The DOJ annually provides Malacañang a list of qualified PDLs for potential presidential pardon.

“What the secretary does on the President’s birthday and on Christmas, we provide a list to the PPA (Parole and Probation Administration); and then eventually, that will be submitted to the Executive Secretary,” Clavano said during a Palace press briefing.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s birthday is on September 11.

“Last year, it was close to one thousand. So, we’re expecting a similar amount this year,” he added.

Clavano noted that the list doesn’t prioritize, but includes qualified PDLs such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and those with illnesses.

RELATED STORIES:
Bilibid eyed as biggest park in Metro Manila
Practical solutions needed to address crowding in New Bilibid Prison

Read more...