Marcos pushes faster release of eligible prisoners, orders strict legal checks

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 29, 2026

Photo courtesy: Presidential Communication Office

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered authorities to speed up the release of prisoners who are legally qualified to leave detention, saying delays in paperwork or lack of legal assistance should not keep them behind bars.

However, the President stressed that every release must undergo careful legal review to ensure public safety and prevent preferential treatment.

Marcos made the remarks on Wednesday, October 28, during the 32nd National Correctional Consciousness Week celebration at New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.

“Every release should be done painstakingly. Second chances should never come at the expense of public safety,” he said.

His directive focuses on persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who have already completed their sentences or otherwise qualify for release but remain detained because of unresolved documentation or limited access to legal services.

“Completing a sentence should mean going home to your family, not waiting for delayed paperwork,” Marcos said.

The President also directed prison authorities to address illegal cellphone use and drug operations inside correctional facilities, emphasizing that no inmate should receive special privileges.

Thousands released under correctional reforms

The Marcos administration has reported the release of more than 36,000 PDLs since July 2022 through various legal and correctional mechanisms.

According to figures cited by the Presidential Communications Office, 36,842 inmates had been released as of October 26, 2026.

The government has also transferred 16,179 prisoners to other penal facilities to help reduce overcrowding at New Bilibid Prison.

Among the initiatives supporting faster release is the Bureau of Corrections’ Bilis Laya Program, which brings in volunteer lawyers to review inmate records, complete legal requirements, and identify those eligible for discharge.

The Department of Justice’s Katarungan Caravan also provides legal assistance to inmates and communities with limited access to legal services.

On October 20, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos visited New Bilibid Prison with more than 200 volunteer lawyers. Their assistance enabled authorities to review documents and release 43 qualified PDLs that same day.

The initiative was intended to prevent unnecessary detention caused by administrative delays.

Marcos urged local governments to work with law schools and lawyers’ organizations to expand free legal assistance, including services provided by qualified law students under professional supervision.

Addressing overcrowding and rehabilitation

Beyond processing releases, Marcos acknowledged that prison overcrowding remains a major challenge in the country’s correctional system.

He said cramped facilities, prolonged legal proceedings, and inadequate access to legal representation can make rehabilitation more difficult.

The government is pursuing improvements at several correctional sites, including Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Palawan and planned facilities in Occidental Mindoro, Muntinlupa, and Nueva Ecija.

Marcos also called for stronger education, vocational training, and livelihood programs to help inmates prepare for life outside prison.

He encouraged government agencies, local authorities, and private businesses to create employment and livelihood opportunities for former PDLs, supporting their return to society.

The President emphasized that correctional reform should address both accountability and rehabilitation, allowing eligible individuals to rebuild their lives while maintaining the safeguards required by law.