By Benjamin Pulta
MANILA – 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.
Catapang said the Corrections Emergency Response Team agents recaptured Tyrone Dela Cruz at 7:30 a.m. Thursday in Sitio Idarag, Barangay Sta. Lucia, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro.
He said the PDL was re-arrested after local authorities reported an unidentified man stealing a motorcycle.
An immediate pursuit operation led to the identification and eventual rearrest of the PDL, who was sentenced to reclusion perpetua by a Laguna court in 2017 for kidnapping.
Catapang reiterated the Bureau’s commitment to maintaining safety within its facilities and the larger community.
“Our team acted promptly and efficiently, demonstrating our resolve to uphold order and security,” he said.
“Let this serve as a warning to all persons deprived of liberty: attempts to escape will not succeed. We will track you down and bring you back to justice.”
As the investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding Dela Cruz’s escape, BuCor officials are collaborating with local law enforcement to gather additional information.
The BuCor earlier said four prison officers have been relieved from their duties following the escape of Dela Cruz.
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 now under investigation. (PNA)
