DAPITAN CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Feb. 07, 2009) – Residents of this beautiful coastal city in Mindanao are jubilant over reports that Zamboanga del Norte Rep. Romeo Jalosjos may be released soon from prison.
Jalosjos, a known philanthropist in the Philippines, has been in jail the past 16 years after being convicted with raping an eleven-year old girl. His supporters maintained that Jalosjos was innocent and that he had been framed up and that the charges against him were politically motivated.
A court sentenced the politician to serve life in prison, but was granted executive clemency by President Gloria Arroyo in 2007. In prison, Jalosjos showed good conduct and is looked upon by inmates as a model because of his kindness to others and his being generous.
The Bureau of Corrections has already recommended the release of Jalosjos from the national penitentiary in Muntinlupa City.
It was the second time that prison officials recommended his release. In December 2007, Jalosjos was freed, but the order was taken back after his political opponents and women’s rights activists opposed and questioned the order.
Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez said he has received a letter from the prison officials about their recommendation. Friends and relatives were said to be preparing for Jalosjos’ return to Dapitan City in the province.
"We are waiting for the return of our Manong Romy. We love him so much," said Saturnino Co, a local supporter of Jalosjos. (Mindanao Examiner)
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