The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has initiated a collaborative dialogue with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to optimize land allocation for the establishment of regional prison facilities across the country.

The initiative is aligned with BuCor’s mandate under Republic Act 10575, as well as its goal of setting up specialized facilities for persons convicted of heinous crimes under Republic Act 11928.

In a recent meeting at the NewCon office within the New Bilibid Prison compound, BuCor director general Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. and NCIP Chairperson Dr. Marie Grace T. Pascua reaffirmed their shared commitment to working together for the benefit of the Filipino people.

Both officials underscored the need to form a technical working group that will assess viable solutions, balancing the objectives of both agencies.

Dr. Pascua commended BuCor’s proactive approach in fostering collaboration with other government agencies, particularly in supporting food security initiatives while advancing the rehabilitation of persons deprived of liberty.

She also stressed NCIP’s willingness to set aside jurisdictional concerns that may arise, emphasizing that open dialogue will be key in achieving their common goals.

The NCIP, established under the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, is tasked with protecting the rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) and safeguarding ancestral domains. This partnership marks a pivotal step in strengthening the agency’s mandate of cultural preservation and land protection while supporting national development goals.

During the meeting, NCIP also encouraged BuCor to propose the creation of a mineral processing zone under the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) at the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm.

The proposed initiative aims to develop local raw materials for domestic processing, helping drive economic sustainability and adding value before export. Through this collaboration, both agencies seek to build a more equitable and effective system — one that upholds Indigenous rights while addressing the complex challenges of the country’s corrections system.