Manila, Feb. 6 -- The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) on Wednesday said 31 persons deprived of liberty (PDL) at the Leyte Regional Prison (LRP) got closer to freedom after undergoing a pre-parole interview by the Department of Justice - Parole and Probation Administration (DOJ-PPA) Regional Office in Eastern Visayas.

In a statement, the BuCor said the evaluation focused on the inmates' conduct, rehabilitation progress, and readiness to rejoin society.

Officials also weigh the qualification for the PDL's release by ensuring they meet all legal and behavioral requirements before parole is granted.

The BuCor said the initiative is part of the government's push to decongest prisons and help reformed individuals transition back into their com...