The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) is moving forward with its plan to establish a Regional Prison Facility (RPF) in Silago, Southern Leyte as part of its reformation and decongestion program.

This development follows the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MoA) between BuCor and the Provincial Government of Southern Leyte on Friday for the planning, development, and establishment of the RPF.

Envisioned as a special economic zone that integrates correctional, agro-industrial, and eco-tourism components, the project is anchored on Republic Act No. 10575, or the “Bureau of Corrections Act of 2013,” which mandates BuCor to ensure the safe custody, reformation, and rehabilitation of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) and to modernize correctional facilities nationwide. The MOA was signed by BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. and Southern Leyte Governor Damian G. Mercado.

Catapang said the agreement marks a significant step toward modernizing the country’s correctional system — an initiative that not only aims to enhance public safety but also to spur socio-economic development in Eastern Visayas. He noted that Silago offers a strategic location, with access to seaports and airports that can facilitate logistics and make the RPF easily integrated into the envisioned economic zone.

The multifunctional approach aims to transform correctional facilities into self-sustaining communities while opening opportunities for local economic growth. Catapang described the project as ushering in a new phase in the Philippine correctional landscape — one anchored on restorative justice and sustainable development.

For his part, Mercado thanked Catapang and the entire BuCor leadership for selecting Southern Leyte as the project site and assured the bureau of the province’s full cooperation to make the endeavor a success.

Under the MoA, BuCor will lead the planning and design of the facility, mobilize technical resources, and coordinate with national agencies. The Provincial Government of Southern Leyte, meanwhile, will provide local clearances, support services and community coordination.