The Release of the Oldest Political Prisoner from New Bilibid Prison

At 85 years old, Gerardo Dela Peña, the oldest political prisoner, has been granted his freedom from the New Bilibid Prison. His release has been the result of a sustained campaign by the human rights group Kapatid, advocating for his release on humanitarian grounds.

Spokesperson for Kapatid, Fides Lim, expressed the organization’s joy at Dela Peña’s release, emphasizing its significance as a milestone for human rights campaigns. She underscored that his release is a reminder of the challenges that impede the release of political prisoners. Dela Peña, who was arrested at the age of 75 in 2013 and convicted of murder, has consistently maintained his innocence.

On June 30, at 9:30 p.m., Dela Peña was reunited with his son Melchor, who came to pick him up from the prison. Their long-awaited reunion will also enable Dela Peña to spend time with his wife Pilar in their twilight years.

Fides Lim highlighted the difficulties in securing Dela Peña’s release, citing systemic challenges and bureaucratic delays. She expressed concern over the failure of the Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP) to promptly implement their own resolution allowing executive clemency for prisoners over 70 years old who have served ten years of their sentence.

Additionally, Lim pointed out that Dela Peña had already served beyond his commuted sentence, spending over 12 years and two months in prison as of June 12. She emphasized that every additional moment behind bars for an innocent man is a profound injustice.

In expressing gratitude, Lim thanked Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla for his role in facilitating Dela Peña’s release, as well as the Commission on Human Rights for their support in this case.

Dela Peña’s release symbolizes the ongoing struggle for justice and the attainment of freedom for individuals who have been wrongfully imprisoned. It serves as a testament to the perseverance of those who champion human rights causes.

As we celebrate the release of the oldest political prisoner from New Bilibid Prison, we are reminded of the importance of advocating for justice and fairness within the legal system. The case of Gerardo Dela Peña underscores the need for continued efforts to ensure that no individual faces unjust incarceration, especially in their old age.