Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. on Sunday emphasized the significance of granting an anniversary bonus to eligible officials and employees of the agency, saying the assistance will go a long way, especially for personnel affected by the recent typhoons and floods.

This comes as Catapang ordered the cancellation of the scheduled social night on Wednesday and the anticipated “BuCor’s Got Talent” program on Friday, which were part of the bureau’s 120th Founding Anniversary celebration.

The cancellation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to avoid lavish celebrations in solidarity with thousands of Filipinos devastated by recent calamities.

Instead of festivities, Catapang said BuCor will shift its focus to community support efforts, including holding mass offerings and collecting cash and in-kind donations for affected families.

He explained that he approved the recommendation of BuCor Deputy Director General for Administration Al Perreras, citing Administrative Order No. 263, issued in 1996 and signed by then Executive Secretary Ruben D. Torres, which authorizes the grant of an Anniversary Bonus to officials and employees of national government agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations, and government financial institutions.

Catapang said the bonus is a meaningful assistance for employees who were affected by typhoons and flooding, while those who were not affected may use the benefit as an opportunity to help others.

In his recommendation to Catapang, Perreras stated: “In line with this significant occasion that honors not only the institution's enduring service but also the unwavering dedication and camaraderie of its personnel, whose collective efforts continuously contribute to the Bureau's success and integrity, the Chief of the Finance Service respectfully requests the granting of an anniversary bonus not exceeding P3,000 to all officials and employees of the BuCor who are eligible to receive it.”

He noted that government institutions are authorized to commemorate milestone anniversaries through the grant of anniversary bonuses, and that BuCor qualifies to extend this benefit under the prescribed guidelines.