Palayan city: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) is set to construct a new regional prison facility, marking the country's first such development in 53 years since the last facility was built in Leyte during former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.'s administration. BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. spearheaded the groundbreaking ceremony for the PHP470-million correctional facility, which will be constructed on a 60-hectare property donated by the provincial government of Nueva Ecija.
According to Philippines News Agency, the state-of-the-art facility, scheduled for completion next year, is designed to accommodate up to 7,500 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). It will feature maximum, medium, and minimum-security camps; a reception and diagnostic center; a drug treatment and rehabilitation center; a correctional institution for women; vocational and livelihood facilities; agricultural production areas; in-facility courtrooms; and personnel housing.
Security measures include a perimeter fence with fortified walls, strategically positioned elevated guard towers, controlled entry points with monitored checkpoints, advanced surveillance and communication technologies, and solar lighting for enhanced energy efficiency and security. During his speech, Catapang expressed gratitude to Nueva Ecija Gov. Aurelio Umali and the people of Palayan for their trust and confidence in BuCor.
He highlighted that the project will bring economic benefits to Palayan City during its multi-phase construction, creating employment opportunities for thousands of local workers and stimulating the regional economy. Once operational, the facility will provide permanent jobs for security personnel, administrative staff, medical professionals, and program coordinators.
Local businesses and suppliers are expected to see increased demand for goods and services. The project will also prompt infrastructure development, with enhancements to roads, utilities, and essential services improving the city's capacity. Catapang noted that the donated lot will serve as a foundation for infrastructure projects that support a unified penology and correctional system, aligning with the Philippines Development Plan 2023-2028.
In addition to the groundbreaking, BuCor awarded the notice of award to joint venture companies Front Nine Konstruct Builders and Realty Dev Corp and Qonstech Construction Corp, the winning bidders tasked with undertaking this significant project.
