MANILA: Prison officials announced plans on Monday to request the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) to incorporate the Bureau of Correction's (BuCor) assets in Mindoro into the Luzon Economic Corridor, alongside those in Palawan. Speaking at BuCor's 119th founding anniversary celebration, Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. revealed that the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa would be relocated to Palawan to facilitate development of the NBP's valuable land south of Manila. According to Philippines News Agency, Catapang explained that the maximum, minimum, and medium security compounds of the New Bilibid Prison would be closed, with only the Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC) remaining operational. Additionally, the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) is set to be transferred to Palawan. This move is part of a broader strategy to optimize the use of BuCor's land assets for economic development. Catapang highlighted that the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm (SPPF) in Occiden tal Mindoro, spanning 9,000 hectares, holds potential for bolstering the country's food security. Similarly, the 27,000-hectare Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) in Puerto Princesa is progressing towards becoming an eco-industrial township, supported by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and aligned with the Luzon Economic Corridor plan. BuCor is currently working with the Department of Agriculture to enhance agricultural activities at SPPF, while implementing agri-aqua projects at IPPF. By 2026, plans include procuring a seagoing vessel to transport food produced in the prison farms and facilitate movement of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) outside Manila. This initiative seeks to create employment opportunities for PDLs, enhance food security, and promote urban development. Catapang emphasized that these efforts align with the Marcos administration's goal to elevate the Philippines to an upper middle-income economy, demonstrating a commitment to progress and inclusive growth. The integrati on of BuCor's assets in Mindoro into the Luzon Economic Corridor marks a significant step towards leveraging these facilities for economic and societal advancement.