Sablayan: Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. on Thursday announced the recapture of a person deprived of liberty (PDL) who escaped from the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm in Occidental Mindoro on March 3.

According to Philippines News Agency, Catapang stated that the Corrections Emergency Response Team agents successfully recaptured Tyrone Dela Cruz at 7:30 a.m. Thursday in Sitio Idarag, Barangay Sta. Lucia, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro. The PDL was re-arrested following reports of an unidentified man stealing a motorcycle, which led to an immediate pursuit operation resulting in his identification and capture.

Dela Cruz, who was sentenced to reclusion perpetua by a Laguna court in 2017 for kidnapping, had been on the run since his escape. Catapang emphasized the Bureau's dedication to ensuring safety within its facilities and the broader community. "Our team acted promptly and efficiently, demonstrating our resolve to uphold order and security," he said. He further warned all persons deprived of liberty that escape attempts would be futile, as the Bureau would pursue and bring them back to justice.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Dela Cruz's escape is ongoing, with BuCor officials working in conjunction with local law enforcement to gather further details. In the wake of the escape, the BuCor announced that four prison officers have been relieved from their duties. CO3 Jon Jon Edic, shift commander; CO1 Nelbert Moro, keeper/direct custodian; CO1 Lexter Gonzales, Post Tower 1 sentinel; and CO1 Lionel Darrold Orandain, Post Tower 2 sentinel, are currently under investigation.