Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. called on 338 newly graduated custodial officers to uphold integrity, reject unlawful orders, and help drive reforms within the agency.

Speaking before graduates of the Custodial Officer Recruitment Course Class 2025-01, Catapang said the new officers represent a new generation that will help transform BuCor into a more professional and accountable institution.

The graduating class consists of 234 men and 104 women.

Catapang said the recruits are expected to help dismantle outdated practices and advance the vision of a "Bagong BuCor sa Bagong Pilipinas."

He reminded the new officers that wearing the uniform carries higher standards of conduct and professionalism.

"Now that you are uniformed personnel, many changes in your behavior and speech are expected," Catapang said, urging them to embody integrity, service, and discipline at all times.

The BuCor chief also instructed the graduates to strictly follow the agency's manual, particularly if confronted with unlawful directives from superiors.

"If your superior orders you to perform illegal acts, stand firm on the BuCor manual and call attention to it," he said.

Catapang stressed that accountability extends to supervisors, noting that commanding officers will also be held responsible for the misconduct of their subordinates.

He assured the graduates that the agency would support their welfare, including through an ongoing housing program that aims to build 8,000 homes for BuCor personnel nationwide.

The bureau is also planning to establish schools within BuCor properties to benefit the children of its employees.

Catapang concluded by warning the new custodial officers not to jeopardize their careers through incompetence, negligence, or involvement in corruption.