MANILA, Philippines — At least 706 prisoners from various penitentiaries and penal farms were released yesterday.
Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. said the prisoners had either been acquitted, served their maximum sentence, released on parole or probation, granted bail or released through a writ of habeas corpus.
Catapang said the number of freed prisoners is higher compared to those released during the same period last year.
A total of 12,053 prisoners have been freed under the administration of President Marcos.
“The BuCor continues to adhere to the planned strategy of Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla in addressing overpopulation in the penal system by reducing admissions, increasing releases and expanding our jail facilities,“ Catapang said in his speech during the culmination activity held at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa.