Philippines’ Oldest Political Prisoner Finally Freed

The release of Gerardo Dela Peña, the Philippines’ most senior political detainee, from the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City on the evening of June 30, represents a momentous achievement for human rights advocacy in the nation. At the age of 85, Dela Peña had been detained since March 21, 2013, when he was 75, on a murder conviction that he has consistently contested. His release required a concerted effort and the intervention of various organizations.

Dela Peña’s release was secured after the Bureau of Pardons and Parole recommended the commutation of his sentence, considering his 12 years and two months of incarceration, surpassing the recommended duration, and his good conduct time allowance. Fides Lim, the spokesperson for the prisoner rights group Kapatid, highlighted the bureaucratic challenges and delays in securing the release of political prisoners, stressing the necessity for more efficient procedures to avoid unnecessary prolonged detention.

Dela Peña’s case garnered widespread attention, with human rights groups and individuals advocating for his release due to his advanced age, failing eyesight, and deteriorating hearing during his time in prison. The Commission on Human Rights and various human rights groups were also vocal in their support for his release. This development serves as a sobering reminder of the persistent difficulties that impede the prompt release of political prisoners.

Kapatid acknowledged the perseverance, vigilance, and collective effort of those involved in securing Dela Peña’s release, expressing gratitude to Justice Secretary Boying Remulla and the Commission on Human Rights, among others. The release of Gerardo Dela Peña represents a triumph for human rights advocates, emphasizing the power of community action and the unwavering commitment to justice. However, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle to ensure justice and fairness in the country’s legal and correctional systems.

As of now, the Department of Justice has not provided a comment on Dela Peña’s release. Nevertheless, the significance of this event cannot be overstated, standing as a testament to the impact of collective advocacy and perseverance.