Senator Imee Marcos urges faster release of elderly, sick PDLs

Senator Imee Marcos has urged government agencies to expedite the review and release of qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), particularly elderly inmates, those with chronic illnesses, and individuals who have served decades behind bars.

Marcos made the appeal following her visit to the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) on Monday, October 26, in line with the observance of the 32nd National Correctional Consciousness Week (NACOCOW) 2026.

"Ipalaya na ang mga lola! Sana may kumpletong listahan na. Pagpilitan natin, gawin natin, maging makulit tayo," Marcos said, pushing for a consolidated list of inmates eligible for immediate discharge.

According to Marcos, around 240 inmates are currently scheduled for release, including 54 individuals aged 60 and above. Additionally, a total of 810 PDLs have been identified as eligible for release through executive clemency, parole, completion of maximum sentence terms, and provisions under Department of Justice (DOJ) Department Order No. 625.

The lawmaker stressed that elderly prisoners—especially those who are ailing or have been incarcerated for more than 20 years—should be prioritized.

"Sobra-sobra na ang siksikan sa mga kulungan, at kulang na kulang ang budget. May mga lola na matanda na, mahina na ang katawan, at napakatagal nang nakakulong. Kung qualified na silang makalaya, huwag na nating patagalin pa. Bigyan natin sila ng pagkakataong makasama ang kanilang pamilya," Marcos added.

-Paraluman News