Facade of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa on September 18, 2019. George Calvelo, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA — The Bureau of Corrections is set to release 97 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) who have served at least 40 years with time allowances.

In a statement, the BuCor said Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla  approved the release of the PDLs upon the recommendation of BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr.

Here is a breakdown of the 97 PDLs:

• New Bilibid Prison - 47
• Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm - 23
• Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm - 12
• Davao Prison and Penal Farm - 6
• San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm - 5
• Correctional Institution for Women - 4

Prison records of the PDLs showed that they were sentenced to at least one count of reclusion perpetua or life imprisonment.

The BuCor noted that the release of the PDLs is part of the decongestion efforts in penal facilities as the DOJ adopted Department Order No. 62 which revises rules and procedures on the release of PDLs with expired sentences.

The BuCor noted that PDLs sentenced to life imprisonment or reclusion perpetua and those classified as high-risk should be released upon prior approval of the justice secretary.