Muntinlupa City: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has underscored the necessity of transforming jails into economically productive areas. This proposal emerged as a significant takeaway from the ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) 2025, as stated by BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. during a press briefing on Monday. "We are moving away from mega prisons to mega PEZA (Philippine Economic Zone Authority ecozones)," Catapang remarked, indicating a shift towards integrating prison facilities into economic frameworks.
According to Philippines News Agency, Catapang mentioned that BuCor is evaluating best practices from countries like Brunei and Thailand, with an eye on expanding home-based detention systems akin to release on recognizance. Technological advancements, such as leg anklets, have facilitated the tracking of individuals under such systems. He also highlighted the potential discussion of these topics at the next ARCC in Thailand. Moreover, Catapang emphasized the importance of improving drug abuse rehabilitation systems, as drug prevalence remains a pervasive issue in Southeast Asian jail facilities.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) showcased its reports and accomplishments during the conference, which took place from February 14 to 17. Spearheaded by the DOJ-Office of the Chief State Counsel (OCSC), the report centered around the Philippine government's proposal to establish the ASEAN Convention on Transfer of Sentenced Persons (ACTSP) during the ASEAN Senior Law Officials Meeting (ASLOM). The ACTSP is designed to enhance international legal cooperation and address cross-border crimes by reforming criminal and correctional justice systems in ASEAN member countries, thereby promoting human rights, inclusiveness, universality, and equality.
The Transfer of Sentenced Persons (TSP) agreement is a form of restorative justice, focusing on rehabilitating sentenced individuals through humanitarian considerations, aiding them in leading crime-free lives post-release. "The humanitarian consideration and protection are the primary reasons for establishing TSP mechanisms," explained Assistant Chief State Counsel Mildred Bernadette Alvor.
Currently, the Philippines holds three bilateral TSP agreements with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Spain, and Thailand. Additionally, a recent TSPA with the United Arab Emirates, signed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla, awaits Senate concurrence. Meanwhile, TSPAs with Canada and the United Kingdom are yet to be activated.
Catapang expressed gratitude towards ASEAN partners for their dedication to restorative justice and the transformation of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). He emphasized the collective effort required for this noble cause, despite busy schedules. Justice Secretary Remulla noted that the event served as a platform for nations to unite towards the common goal of transforming lives and safeguarding humanity.
