Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. has ordered the release of an anniversary bonus for eligible officials and employees, saying it would help those affected by recent typhoons and floods.

Catapang also canceled the bureau’s planned social night on Wednesday and the BuCor’s Got Talent program on Friday, both part of its 120th founding anniversary celebration, in support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call to avoid lavish Christmas celebrations and to show solidarity with those hit by calamities.

Instead of the festivities, Catapang said the bureau will focus on community support through mass offerings and donation drives, both in cash and in kind, for victims of recent disasters.

He said the grant of the anniversary bonus follows Administrative Order 263, issued in 1996 and signed by then Executive Secretary Ruben D. Torres, which authorizes national government agencies, government-owned and -controlled corporations, and government financial institutions to provide anniversary bonuses to qualified personnel.

“This is a big help to our employees who were affected by the typhoons and floods, and for those who were not affected, it gives them a chance to help others,” Catapang said.

In his recommendation to Catapang, BuCor Deputy Director General for Administration Al Perreras cited the importance of honoring the bureau’s enduring service and the dedication of its personnel.

He requested the grant of an anniversary bonus not exceeding P3,000 to all eligible officials and employees.

Perreras added that government institutions are authorized to mark milestone anniversaries with such bonuses in recognition of their service and commitment, and BuCor is entitled to do the same under the existing guidelines.