Pinoy Inmate Released from Skien Prison

Gerund Encinas, the lone Filipino national serving time in a Norway prison, has been released by the Norwegian police authorities and was repatriated to the Philippines on 07 February 2010 after serving seven of his fourteen-year sentence. With the help of the Philippine Embassy, Gerund earlier submitted a petition to serve only one half of his term. The authorities found merit in this petition in addition to his record of good behavior in prison.

The Philippine Embassy in Norway coordinated with the police and Skien Prison authorities on the formalities of the release, including the issuance of a one-way travel document to Encinas.

Mr. Encinas was a former seaman convicted to serve 14 years in prison for stabbing and killing a Spanish national onboard MV Teekay on 18 June 2003. Throughout the years of his incarceration, the Philippine Embassy had extended him support, conferring with his lawyer on his legal strategy, speaking with his prison wards and closely monitoring the progress of his case. The Embassy also never ceased in providing him emotional and moral support. On his birthdays, the Embassy would bring him his favorite food and gave him a Bible, some reading materials and other items that would alleviate his homesickness in prison.

Members of the Filipino community have also rallied behind Gerund. Of note are Leonor Vintervoll, Maurena Nordrum and Sister Agnes Simbillo who had patiently supported him and even extended help to his family in the Philippines.

Consul General Evelyn Garcia who had coordinated with Police Superintendent Tor-kåre Villseth on Gerund’s release thanked the latter for his assistance. She also conveyed to Mr Villseth Gerund’s request to meet with his benefactors from the Filipino community in Norway, before his departure from Norway.

The Embassy wishes Gerund all the best as he starts a new chapter of his life. At the time of his release, Gerund was 31 years old.