Manila: Prison management officials are planning to add 2,000 new positions over three years as part of efforts to upgrade services. Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) chief Gregorio Catapang Jr. on Friday said the agency has adopted a comprehensive workforce plan for 2026 to 2028 that aims to increase authorized positions from 8,589 in 2025 to 10,589 by 2028.

According to Philippines News Agency, the plan will be implemented through phased approvals to ensure alignment with BuCor's mandates. As of Dec. 31, 2025, BuCor reported 8,749 filled positions, translating to a 92.58 percent fill rate - an improvement from 89.82 percent the previous year. These include 442 Correctional Technical Officers; 8,022 Correctional Officers; and 262 civilian personnel.

However, 699 positions remain vacant, highlighting the need for continued recruitment and strategic deployment to maintain operational efficiency, Catapang said. He also noted an imbalance in rank distribution, with a high concentration of entry-level personnel. While this poses operational challenges, Catapang said it also presents opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Catapang added that the personnel expansion plan must address anticipated retirements and high attrition rates, which could further strain the workforce if left unaddressed. BuCor has committed to strengthening recruitment and developing internal talent through targeted training programs to fill vacancies and prepare personnel for future leadership roles.

Meanwhile, the bureau has allocated PHP7.3 million for personnel training and development. Beginning in the first quarter of 2026, BuCor will streamline mandatory career courses, including the Corrections Officer Basic Recruit Course, Corrections Officer Junior Supervisory Course, and Officer Candidate School-Corrections Officer Candidate Course. "These programs are designed to equip personnel with essential skills and knowledge to meet the demands of their duties," Catapang said.