Manila, Oct. 29 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called for faster release of qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) whose discharge is delayed by paperwork or lack of legal assistance, while directing prison authorities to ensure that every release undergoes strict legal review.

"Every release should be done painstakingly. Second chances should never come at the expense of public safety," Marcos said during the 32nd National Correctional Consciousness Week at the New Bilibid Prison reservation in Muntinlupa City.

Marcos stressed that no one should receive special treatment and called for an end to illegal cellphone use and drug operations inside correctional facilities.

At the same time, he said qualified PDLs s...