To strengthen jail reforms and address chronic congestion in detention facilities, the government is eyeing the integration of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Sec. Jonvic Remulla announced the proposed integration as part of efforts to streamline resources for the rehabilitation of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) during the BJMP’s 34th anniversary in Quezon City on July 2.

The interior secretary described the plan as a “work in progress” in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve the management of correctional facilities while ensuring transparency and consultation with stakeholders.

“It is a proposal, a work in progress, and one that will be done in consultation with you,” Remulla told BJMP personnel.

During the event, Remulla highlighted BJMP’s contributions to public safety and rehabilitation, stating that the agency’s programs have led to a decrease in national jail congestion from 314 percent in 2024 to 296 percent this year. 

He also cited BJMP’s provision of paralegal aid to 85,183 PDLs, aimed at helping detainees address case backlogs and delays.

Remulla reported that BJMP has declared 230 facilities drug-free and 77 as drug-cleared through surprise inspections, reflecting its intensified campaign against illegal drugs within its facilities.

Moreover, he also noted that education and livelihood initiatives remain central to BJMP’s rehabilitation efforts, with 10,700 PDLs having completed basic education and 107 earning college degrees through the College Education Behind Bars program.

Livelihood programs have likewise benefited over 66,000 PDLs, generating P116.7 million in gross income, according to Remulla.

The event also featured former PDL Marissa Basa, now working at a city hall, who underscored the impact of BJMP’s programs in giving former detainees a second chance.

“Ito na ako ngayon, hindi na katulad noon. Masaya ako kasi first time ko magtrabaho,” she shared.

Remulla said the DILG will continue supporting BJMP’s mandate while aiming to strengthen institutional capacities through the planned integration with BuCor.

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