A total of 74 prisoners were granted a presidential pardon ahead of Christmas and will have a chance to reunite with their families, it emerged on Saturday.

The presidential pardon is an annual ritual where people in jail for lighter offences are released earlier than their time.

According to Philenews, a list was sent to the attorney general’s office for approval. Prisoners in jail for sexual offences and other serious crimes are exempt from the pardon.

The prison has also made arrangements to allow for more visitation rights for those serving their time, as well as special events to celebrate the holidays.