Release from prison is the best Christmas gift received by at least 108 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in Mandaue City.

The PDLs will be spending their Christmas with their respective family as they regain their freedom.

The PDLs qualified under the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) implemented by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

“In accordance sa ilang good conduct, cooperate sila sa rehabilitation program, interfaith programs, mga programa sa BJMP like alternative learning, the moment mo-cooperate sila o moapil sa programa, they are entitled matagaan ani,” said JSupt. Jessie Gingoyon, warden of the Mandaue City Jail Male Dormitory.

The PDLs were released on Monday, December 22, 2025.

In addition, a PDL at the Mandaue City Jail Female Dormitory was also released based on GCTA on the same date.

“Just last week pag-compute sa paralegal counsel nakita nga qualified siya sa GCTA, gi-release pod namo siya,” JSInsp. Ma. Roselle Paracale, warden of the Mandaue City Jail Female Dorm, said.

Prior to their release, the PDLs were reminded to stay away from lawlessness to avoid a similar incarceration. 

The Local Government Unit of Mandaue City handed over assistance in the form of rice and canned goods to the PDLs as they start a new chapter in their lives. 

As soon as the pertinent documents of the first batch of PDLs were ready, the Certificates of Discharge were turned over to them. 

They met their loved ones who have been waiting excitedly for their release.

“Lisod uy, lisod…dili na, tagam na,” one of the released PDLs said.

His mother said she expects her son to change for the better, as life behind bars is tough.

“Kinahanglan magbag-o gyud siya, kay di baya lalim, sir,” the mother said.