Davao: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has transferred 400 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from Muntinlupa City's New Bilibid Prison (NBP) and 100 from Mandaluyong's Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) to the Davao Prison and Penal Farm (DPPF). In a statement, BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said the PDLs were escorted by 150 personnel from both correctional facilities to ensure a secure and orderly movement.

According to Philippines News Agency, the women PDLs will be housed at the CIW located within the DPPF premises. The transfer is part of efforts to decongest the NBP, which has long struggled with overcrowding, Catapang said. The move also aligns with BuCor's preparation for the eventual closure of the NBP.

Catapang emphasized that the department is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for inmates while maintaining safety and order during transfers. After the NBP's closure, BuCor plans to rent out the mixed-use property to optimize its use and earn revenue to support the corrections system's modernization.

The BuCor has so far transferred nearly 16,000 PDLs from NBP to various prisons and penal farms in the country.