Members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines provided legal assistance, reviewed case records, helped prepare documents, and more as they participated in the Nationwide Synchronized Jail Decongestion Activity held today August 27.
The activity mobilized IBP Chapters across the country to provide services to persons deprived of liberty to ease overcrowding and help pave the way for the release of those who are qualified.
It was carried out in partnership with the Bureau of Corrections and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.
The IBP National Office visited the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Minimum Security Compound in Muntinlupa as part of the activity.
Other IBP chapters went to the jails in their areas.
IBP National President Allan Panolong joined the IBP North Cotabato Chapter at the North Cotabato District Jail in Amas, Kidapawan City.
For the activity, the lawyers held individual legal consultations, reviewed detention and case records, computed time served, prepared appropriate pleadings and legal documents, conducted case referrals, and carried out legal aid interventions for qualified persons deprived of liberty.
The IBP said these efforts are meant to advance access to justice, uphold the rights and dignity of PDLs, and support meaningful and humane jail decongestion measures.
“The activity underscores the IBP’s continuing commitment to public service and to strengthening institutional collaboration toward a more responsive, accessible, and humane justice system,” it said in a statement.