BJMP releases 10

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology’s (BJMP) After-Care Program marked another milestone in its peace and reconciliation efforts with the release of 10 long-time persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), allowing them a fresh start at life beyond bars.

In a send-off ceremony, the BJMP-National Capital Region and the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) extended their best wishes to the former detainees as they prepared for reintegration into their communities and reunification with their families.

BJMP-NCR Director Chief Supt. Clint Russel Tangeres and OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez led the event, joined by Metro Manila District Jail-4 Warden Chief Insp. Isnard Sempuego.

Tangeres said all 10 PDLs had been incarcerated for years due to terrorism-related cases. Nine were former members of the Moro National Liberation Front, and one belonged to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

“They were those who defected and joined a terror group,” Tangeres said in a phone interview.

Sempuego opened the ceremony by reaffirming BJMP’s commitment to peace and reconciliation as part of the government’s After-Care Program.

In his remarks, Tangeres encouraged the former PDLs to embrace their new beginning and value their regained freedom.

He added that the send-off program reflects the government’s efforts to restore hope, honor, and dignity to former PDLs.

Tangeres also thanked Galvez for his unwavering support of the government’s reintegration and after-care initiatives.

“To our PDLs — this is more than a send-off; it is a celebration of your courage, growth, and readiness to return to society with renewed purpose. This program proves that reintegration, healing, and peace are possible. The stories of our former PDLs stand as living proof that a second chance can change lives and help build safer communities,” he said.