The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) announced Wednesday that it has transferred a total of 16,530 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from the National Bilibid Prison (NBP) to various Operating Prison and Penal Farms (OPPFs) since Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. assumed office in 2022.

This came as Catapang said another batch of 200 PDLs successfully arrived Tuesday night at the San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm in San Ramon, Zamboanga City, after being transferred from the NBP in Muntinlupa City.

Catapang said these transfers are a strategic component of BuCor's comprehensive program aimed not only at easing overcrowding at the heavily congested NBP but also at preparing for its eventual closure.

He emphasized that the relocation of inmates is crucial to improving living conditions within the penal system and ensuring better rehabilitation opportunities.

“By distributing the inmate population more evenly among other OPPFs nationwide, the bureau hopes to promote safe and humane detention environments that support correctional goals,” Catapang said.

As part of the secure and orderly transfer, NBP Chief Superintendent Gary A. Garcia reported that the 200 PDLs were successfully escorted by a team of 70 NBP personnel. The escorting officers were briefed in advance on their specific duties and responsibilities to ensure the security and smooth execution of the transfer operation.

Garcia said 1,909 PDLs, out of the targeted 7,000 transfers planned for this year, have already been relocated.

He disclosed that BuCor continues to coordinate closely with all concerned agencies and local government units to ensure the efficient implementation of the transfer program.