Senator elect Erwin Tulfo has pledged his support for the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Bureau of Corrections (Bucor) in reforming the Philippine correctional system.
During his recent visit to the Minimum Security Compound of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City Tuesday afternoon, Tulfo told Bucor officials headed by Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. that he will file a proposed legislation for a unified penology and correctional system by merging the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) with the BuCor.
Another legislation that Tulfo will priorities is a bill advocating for the release of sickly elderly inmates, recognizing the unique challenges this demographic faces within the penal system.
He also assured Bucor officials to improved their budgetary requirements to facilitate necessary upgrades to facilities, enhance staff training and help access for inmates.
“Malapit sa puso ko ang mga PDLs dahil nung bata pa ako, ang tatay ko ay madalas maimbita ng kanyang kaibigan na official ng Bucor sa Iwahig, at madalas sinasama nya kami doon kung saan kami ay naliligo sa isang open dam at muntik na akong malunod pero ako po ang sinagip ng isang PDL, Kaya makakaasa kayo na ako ay tutulong sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya, Tulfo told his audience.
Catapang for his part said that such enhancements are not merely logistical but essential for enhancing the lives of persons deprived of liberty as we are facing challenges such as overcrowding, insufficient resources, and outdated infrastructure.
Elated by the support from the good Senator, Catapang said that this highlights the importance of collaboration between lawmakers and correctional institutions to foster an environment conducive to ensure that justice is served and that corrections is an opportunity for reform rather than merely punishment.
