BuCor Eyes P11.9-B Budget for Prison Ops, Rehab in 2027

THE Bureau of Corrections’ (BuCor) proposed P11.9-billion budget will fund prison operations, facility improvements, and rehabilitation programs, the agency said as the House of Representatives ends plenary deliberations on its budget. The allocation is about 9.6% higher than BuCor’s P10.88-billion budget for the previous year, the agency said in a statement on Tuesday. BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang, Jr. said the additional funding will help the bureau meet the operational demands of managing correctional facilities nationwide, including essential services, improvements in living conditions, and stronger healthcare and mental health programs. He said the budget will also support education, livelihood and skills-development initiatives aimed at inmate rehabilitation and reintegration. During the budget deliberations, Mr. Catapang cited the participation of the offices of Party-list Reps. Sarah Jane I. Elago, Percival “Perci” V. Cendaña and Renee Louise M. Co in discussions on corrections reform. Mr. Catapang said cooperation among government institutions is important in pursuing a corrections system that is “humane, secure, and rehabilitative.” He said BuCor funds are used responsibly and transparently and in accordance with national priorities. Mr. Catapang pledged to continue working with lawmakers and other partners on policies and programs that would provide inmate opportunities for personal change and prepare them for reintegration after release. — Mark Joseph M. Sanchez