MANILA, May 28 -- Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. on Wednesday directed the establishment of halfway houses in all operating prisons and penal farms (OPPFs) nationwide as part of the government's efforts to strengthen the reintegration program for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).

The halfway houses will serve as temporary residences for individuals awaiting release, and are envisioned not only as transitional spaces but also as secure holding areas for released PDLs whose settlement arrangements are still pending.

In his memorandum addressed to OPPF superintendents and external affair sections or units, Catapang underscored the importance of a comprehensive program for PDLs within the halfway houses....