The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) urged the government to review cases of arbitrary arrest and detention to decongest prison facilities in the country.
The appeal was aired as the CHR lauded the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) in its efforts to release qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from is facilities nationwide.
It cited the release last Feb. 20 of 416 PDLs who had been granted parole and probation and who had been acquitted or served their jail terms.
"CHR acknowledges that this recent action by the BuCor, as well as their plan to release 5,000 more qualified PDLs by June 2023, contributes to the overall decongestion of detention facilities," it said in a statement.
"This effort may also be seen as a positive exercise of the President’s (Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.) power to grant reprieves, commutations, and pardon under the 1987 Constitution toward upholding the dignity and rights of PDLs," it added.
It pointed out that with the release of qualified PDLs, BuCor has taken steps to decongest its facilities since PDLs have long suffered from issues such as overcrowding, poor sanitation and ventilation, and lack of healthcare support.
"The Commission further underscores that a humane correctional system that promotes the release of PDLs -- especially those who have qualified for clemency, such as the elderly and the sick --- bolsters the realization of citizens’ fundamental right to liberty and due process."
For its part, the CHR said it will continue to visit jails and detention facilities all over the country to ensure that the welfare and humane treatment of PDLs are upheld.