By Benjamin Pulta
MANILA – The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) on Monday said it has transferred 500 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City to the San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SRPPF) in Zamboanga.
In a statement, the BuCor said the move is part of a broader initiative to decongest the NBP in preparation for its phased closure by 2028.
The transfer involved 56 PDLs from the Maximum Security Camp and 444 from the Medium Security Camp of the NBP, and a team of 141 escorts.
BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. said additional transfers are set to be implemented that include 300 PDLs to Palawan Prison and Penal Farm, 400 to Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm, and another 300 to Davao Prison and Penal Farm before the end of April.
“This systematic redistribution is aimed at alleviating the burden on NBP while ensuring that humane treatment and rehabilitation programs continue for all inmates. By addressing the issues of overcrowding, the BuCor believes it can create a more manageable and rehabilitative environment for PDLs,” he said.
“Under the Bagong Bucor sa Bagong Pilipinas, our goal remains clear: to transform the correctional landscape in the Philippines into a system that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment.” (PNA)
