The Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken a leading role in advancing the corrections system and human rights, presenting its accomplishments at the ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) 2025 held from 14 to 17 February in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
Spearheaded by the DOJ's Office of the Chief State Counsel (OCSC), the report focused on the Philippine government's proposal at the ASEAN Senior Law Officials Meeting (ASLOM) to establish the ASEAN Convention on Transfer of Sentenced Persons (ACTSP).
The ACTSP aims to promote international legal cooperation and combat cross-border crimes by reforming criminal and correctional justice systems across ASEAN member countries, while upholding human rights, inclusiveness, universality, and equality.
The Transfer of Sentenced Persons (TSP) mechanism emphasizes restorative justice with a focus on rehabilitating sentenced individuals through humanitarian considerations, enabling them to lead crime-free lives upon release.
"The humanitarian consideration and protection are the primary reasons for establishing TSP mechanisms," Assistant Chief State Counsel Mildred Bernadette B. Alvor said.
Currently, the Philippines has three bilateral TSPs with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Spain, and Thailand. A new TSP agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was signed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" C. Remulla at the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025 on February 13, 2025. The agreement is pending Senate concurrence.
TSPAs with Canada and the UK are yet to take effect.
"Let me seize this moment to extend my profound gratitude to our ASEAN partners for their unwavering commitment to restorative justice and compassion for transforming PDLs. Again, thank you for taking time to join us in this noble cause despite your busy schedules, together we can make it," said Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio P. Catapang, Jr.
"This event transcends a mere assembly of leaders, instead, it is a platform where different nations stand united for a common goal of transforming lives and safeguarding humanity," Remulla emphasized.
Undersecretaries Jesse Hermoges T. Andres and Deo L. Marco also attended the symbolic convention.