Manila: About 700 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) received legal assistance from the Department of Justice Action Center's (DOJAC) "Katarungan Caravan" at the Minimum Security Compound of the New Bilibid Prison last week.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative, led by Justice Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez and DOJAC program director, Assistant State Prosecutor Joan Carla Guevarra, highlights the Marcos administration's focus on providing humane, inclusive, and responsive justice. The program ensures that those within correctional facilities have access to necessary legal remedies and due process.

During the caravan, PDLs were offered guidance on key legal issues such as the grant of Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA), parole, executive clemency, appeals, and other available legal remedies. This event was notably the largest in terms of the number of PDLs assisted in the history of the initiative.

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida emphasized, 'This is a reaffirmation of our commitment to deliver real justice for all, without reservation or hesitation, reaching the most in need, even those languishing inside prisons.'

The program saw participation from more than 100 volunteer lawyers and law students from both public and private sectors. Institutions involved included the Philippine Law School, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila - College of Law, San Beda College Alabang - School of Law, and University of the Philippines - College of Law.

Several legal organizations and private practitioners also took part, including chapters of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Angara Abello Concepcion Regala and Cruz (ACCRALAW), China Banking Corp., Espina and Yumul-Espina Law Office, and Poblador Bautista and Reyes Law Office.

The DOJ stated that the Katarungan Caravan at the New Bilibid Prison serves as a testament to DOJAC's dedication to restorative justice, bridging gaps, empowering individuals, and ensuring that access to justice is available to all, including those behind bars.