By CESAR JOLITO III

In a gesture underscoring the spirit of compassion and renewal this Christmas season, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in the Negros Island Region facilitated the release of six qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from the Negros Occidental District Jail – Male Dormitory on Christmas Eve.

The release was carried out under the leadership of jail warden, Jail Superintendent Crisyrel Awe, allowing the former PDLs to reunite with their families and begin a new chapter after completing their sentences.

BJMP said the move reflects its continuing commitment to humane corrections, restorative justice and rehabilitation.

According to the BJMP, the individuals were released after fully serving their respective sentences, with deductions granted under the Good Conduct Time Allowance Law.

Jail officials confirmed that all six demonstrated open and observable good conduct while in custody and complied with institutional rules and rehabilitation programs.

The released PDLs had previously been convicted of various offenses, including murder, homicide, reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, acts of lascivious conduct, violations of Sections 5, 11 and 12 of Article 2 of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002), grave threats and violations of Republic Act 7166.

BJMP clarified that their release was effected strictly in accordance with court orders, existing laws and due process.

BJMP officials noted that beyond granting freedom, the Christmas Eve release brought emotional healing to families long separated and reinforced the importance of family support in successful reintegration.

From an operational standpoint, the move also helped ease jail congestion, allowing authorities to further improve the management, security and welfare of remaining detainees.

“The release of PDLs is never arbitrary,” BJMP emphasized, adding that public safety remains a top priority and that each case underwent thorough legal evaluation and clearance prior to release.

As communities across the country celebrate Christmas, BJMP said the timely release serves as a reminder that justice, when balanced with mercy, can offer hope, dignity and second chances to those who have earned them.

The release was confirmed by BJMP’s Legal Service Section, with authority issued by Atty. Juniven Rey Umadhay, jail chief inspector and regional spokesperson./CJ, WDJ