The Bureau of Corrections (Bucor) on Wednesday reported a significant surge in visitors at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City during the recent Christmas and New Year holidays.

Bucor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said the increase was based on a belated report submitted by NBP Acting Superintendent C/Supt. Roger O. Boncales, which showed that a total of 7,168 relatives and friends of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) visited the facility from 23 December to 2 January.

Of the total number of visitors, regular family visits accounted for 4,676, while 2,492 were recorded as stay-in or conjugal visits.

Catapang said that for many inmates, visits during the holidays serve as a vital lifeline, offering emotional support and a connection to life beyond prison walls. He noted that spending time with loved ones, even within a correctional facility, helps ease the emotional strain brought by incarceration.

While holiday celebrations inside the prison may differ from those experienced by the general public, Catapang said the spirit of the season was still felt through shared meals and the exchange of simple gifts between inmates and their families.

The record number of visitors during the holiday period, he added, underscores the importance of maintaining family ties and reflects the enduring human spirit, showing that personal relationships remain meaningful even where freedom is restricted.