Support for the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) was pledged by Senator-elect Erwin Tulfo in reforming the Philippine correctional system.

During his recent visit to the Minimum Security Compound of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City on Tuesday afternoon, Tulfo told BuCor officials, headed by Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr., that he will file 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 prioritize is a bill advocating for the release of sickly elderly inmates, recognizing the unique challenges this demographic faces within the penal system.

BuCor officials were also assured by Tulfo that their budgetary requirements will be improved 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 (The persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) are close to my heart because when I was young, my father was often invited by his friend who was an official of BuCor in Iwahig. We were frequently brought there, where we would bathe in an open dam. I almost drowned once, but I was saved by a PDL. So you can be sure that I will help you to the best of my ability)," Tulfo told his audience.

Catapang, for his part, said that such enhancements are not merely logistical but essential for improving the lives of persons deprived of liberty as they face challenges such as overcrowding, insufficient resources, and outdated infrastructure.

Elated by the support from the Senator, Catapang said that this highlights the importance of collaboration between lawmakers and correctional institutions to foster an environment conducive to ensuring that justice is served and that corrections are an opportunity for reform rather than merely punishment.