2,950 Persons Deprived of Liberty Released by BuCor Amid Reforms

In a significant move towards prison reform, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) announced the release of 2,950 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from its facilities between April 1 and June 11, 2025. This initiative, spearheaded by BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr., is part of a broader strategy to reintegrate former inmates into society and reduce recidivism rates.

According to a statement from Catapang, the released individuals were either acquitted of their charges, granted writs of habeas corpus, or transitioned to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology due to ongoing legal matters. The breakdown of the releases includes 248 individuals from the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City; four from the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Palawan; 42 from CIW Mindanao; and 1,204 from the New Bilibid Prison (NBP), among others.

The significance of these releases lies not only in the numbers but also in the accompanying reforms aimed at facilitating the reintegration of PDLs into society. Catapang emphasized the importance of these reforms, stating, "By facilitating the reintegration of PDLs into society, the government not only helps these individuals reclaim their lives but also fosters safer communities. Proper reintegration programs can significantly reduce recidivism rates, allowing for better engagement with society and improved public safety."

In line with these reforms, Catapang announced the establishment of halfway houses in all prison facilities. These halfway houses will provide temporary accommodation for individuals awaiting release and transitional spaces for those whose settlement arrangements are pending. This initiative aims to create a supportive environment for former PDLs as they reintegrate into society.

The establishment of halfway houses received support from Senator Raffy Tulfo, who visited the NBP and expressed his commitment to pushing legislation that would support the reformation of the corrections system. Tulfo's involvement highlights the growing political will to address the issues facing the corrections system in the Philippines.

While the release of nearly 3,000 individuals marks a significant achievement, experts warn that successful reintegration requires comprehensive programs that address mental health, employment, and social stigmas associated with incarceration. Dr. Maria Lopez, a criminologist at the University of the Philippines, stated, "To ensure that these reforms are effective, we need to provide adequate support services that address the root causes of criminal behavior and assist individuals in successfully transitioning back into their communities."

In addition to the immediate impacts of these releases, the broader implications for the Philippine corrections system cannot be overlooked. With over 50,000 inmates in its facilities, BuCor is under pressure to implement effective reforms that not only reduce overcrowding but also enhance rehabilitation efforts. The recent releases and proposed halfway houses could serve as a model for future reform initiatives.

As the government continues to navigate the complexities of criminal justice reform, the success of these efforts will largely depend on the willingness of various stakeholders—including lawmakers, community organizations, and the public—to collaborate in fostering a more rehabilitative environment for former PDLs. The future of the corrections system in the Philippines hinges on the effectiveness of these initiatives in promoting public safety and societal reintegration.