A memorandum of agreement was forged by the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) on Monday to create a collaborative framework for the utilization and development of ancestral domain land in various regions under NCIP jurisdiction for the establishment of regional prisons and penal farms. The initiative aims to support penal reform while promoting socio-economic development within indigenous communities.

The agreement was signed by BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. and NCIP Chairperson Dr. Margie Grace T. Pascua during a ceremony held at the New Conference Room of BuCor in Muntinlupa City.

Catapang said that under the MOU, BuCor proposes to utilize and develop about 1,000 hectares of ancestral domain land in each region where NCIP has recognized ancestral landholdings, for the establishment of regional prison and penal farms that will both decongest existing facilities and enhance rehabilitation programs.

He explained that under the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 10575, or the Bureau of Corrections Act of 2013, BuCor may establish additional penal farms beyond its existing seven to accommodate the growing number of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).

“While this initiative will promote proximity to families and communities of persons deprived of liberty during incarceration and facilitate reintegration upon their release, it is also envisioned to promote economic development, employment, livelihood, and sustainable partnerships within indigenous communities,” Catapang said.

For her part, Pascua expressed her appreciation for the timing of the MOU, noting that it coincides with the 31st Indigenous Peoples Month.

“I believe in the direction of the MOU to empower the indigenous communities as well as the PDLs,” Pascua said, adding that the agreement marks “a meaningful step in our shared pursuit of justice and inclusive growth.”

Under the MOU, both parties agreed to form a Technical Working Group (TWG) composed of authorized representatives from BuCor and NCIP to study and evaluate the proposal’s feasibility, ensure full legal compliance, and recommend actions and conditions for a more detailed agreement.