By CESAR JOLITO III

A total of 69 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in the Negros Island Region (BJMP-NIR) were peacefully transferred to various national correctional facilities in December 2025 as part of the agency’s continuing jail decongestion and case management efforts.

In a radio interview, BJMP-NIR spokesperson Jail Senior Inspector Atty. Juniven Rey Umadhay said that of the total number transferred, 56 male PDLs were moved to the Bureau of Corrections in Muntinlupa City, while 10 female PDLs were transferred to the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City.

Three other PDLs were brought to the National Center for Mental Health for appropriate medical and psychological care.

Umadhay explained that the operation is part of BJMP’s ongoing efforts to transfer already convicted PDLs to national penitentiaries, where they may become eligible for programs such as pardon, parole or other forms of executive clemency, in accordance with existing laws.

He added that the number of PDLs transferred depends on the availability of funds provided by the BJMP National Office, with support from local government units, to ensure proper logistics and security during the transfer.

The BJMP-NIR said the transfers are a key step toward improving jail management, easing congestion in regional detention facilities, and ensuring that PDLs receive appropriate care based on their legal status and medical needs./CJ, WDJ