PBBM surpasses historical benchmarks in corrections reform

As the country reflects on the trajectory of institutional governance ahead of the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) presents a decisive narrative of reform covering the period from 01 July 2022 to 30 June 2025.

Under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Philippine corrections system has undergone a significant transformation — marked by record setting release figures, modernized custodial infrastructure, and expanded digital access for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs).

At the core of this institutional shift is the release of 23,629 PDLs, surpassing the figures for the first three years during the past administration and exceeding the accomplishments of previous administrations over their six-year terms. This milestone was made possible through the strengthened operations of the Management Screening and Evaluation Committee (MSEC) and the proper implementation of the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA), ensuring timely, transparent and just release of eligible individuals.

Parallel efforts to resolve chronic congestion have also gained momentum. A total of 11,601 PDLs have been transferred from the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) to corrections facilities outside Metro Manila, supported by continuous construction and rehabilitation works across the Operating Prisons and Penal Farms (OPPFs). These strategies have led to a 22.4 percent reduction in the nationwide congestion rate as of mid2025 — an operational breakthrough reinforcing BuCor’s commitment to humane custodial management.

Another key breakthrough lies in BuCor’s growing digital capacity. Electronic services such as E-Dalaw, E-Burol, and virtual court hearings have benefited 44,988 PDLs, helping them maintain connections with their families and loved ones, participate in legal processes, and uphold rituals of dignity even under incarceration.

These platforms reduce logistical strain while uplifting the oftenoverlooked emotional and legal needs of PDLs.

Beyond numerical outcomes, t h e Bureau’s midterm performance signals a deeper shift: One of alignment with modern correctional philosophy, institutional transparency, and rights-based governance. By strengthening release mechanisms, decentralizing facility management, and using technology to empower both staff and PDLs, BuCor is redefining its role as a vital pillar of the Philippine criminal justice system.

Under the leadership of General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr., AFP (Ret.), CESE, CCLH, the Bureau has reasserted its relevance, restored public trust, and refocused its mandate toward lasting impact. The reforms already in motion reflect a deeper mission — one that prioritizes national development, justice and human dignity.

As the nation listens to the President’s report to the people, BuCor stands not just as a witness to change — but as a driving force behind it.

With every life restored, every cell decongested, and every wall opened to new possibilities, the Bureau moves forward with clarity of purpose and courage of conviction. This is the new face of corrections — rational, rightsbased, and responsive.

Bagong BuCor sa Bagong Pilipinas!