Justice summit focuses on seniors, PWDs, and persons deprived of liberty

The Department of Justice gathered key officials and stakeholders at the Hilton Manila for a Justice Summit focused on programs supporting senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and persons deprived of liberty. The event, themed “Advancing Real Justice for Senior Citizens, Persons with Disabilities, and Persons Deprived of Liberty,” included representatives from the National Commission of Senior Citizens, the National Council on Disability Affairs, the Bureau of Corrections, and the Board of Pardons and Parole.

Ma. Merceditas Navarro Gutierrez, NCSC Chairperson and CEO, opened the morning session, stressing the need for stronger protections and innovative policies to safeguard the rights and welfare of the elderly. DOJ Undersecretary Raul T. Vasquez expressed support, affirming the department’s dedication to fair treatment and empowerment of vulnerable sectors.

Sessions covered legal and policy frameworks for seniors and PWDs. NCSC Acting Executive Director Ana Marie C. Calapit discussed digital safety and policy innovations for senior citizens, while NCDA’s Atty. Rhealeth Krizelle Ramos focused on new laws and inclusion efforts for persons with disabilities.

The discussion then turned to persons deprived of liberty. DOJ Undersecretary Deo L. Marco provided an overview of the country’s correctional system. BuCor’s Atty. Keisha Alyssa Brillo gave updates on the 2024 Revised Implementing Rules of Republic Act No. 10592, which allows eligible inmates to earn time allowances for good conduct. Board of Pardons and Parole Chairperson Sergio R. Calizo Jr. explained the process for parole and executive clemency, while Parole and Probation Administration Legal Division OIC Bonny Mariano Calizo discussed restorative justice and reintegration programs.

Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Jovyanne M. Escano-Santamaria wrapped up the sessions with a presentation on strengthening the Victims Compensation Program. BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang called for continued collaboration among justice sector agencies to “restore hope and uphold the dignity of every Filipino.”

The summit highlighted the DOJ’s ongoing commitment to promoting inclusivity, improving access to justice, and empowering vulnerable sectors across the country.