In a significant shift in policy, Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., the Director General of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), has announced plans to convert traditional prison facilities into economically productive zones. This proposal was highlighted during the ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) 2025 held in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. Catapang emphasized a move from large-scale prisons to what he termed ‘mega PEZA ecozones,’ inspired by successful models in Brunei and Thailand.
The initiative also includes expanding home-based detention options, facilitated by technological advancements such as leg anklets for tracking. Catapang mentioned that these ideas might be further discussed at the next ARCC in Thailand. Additionally, he stressed the urgent need for an improved drug rehabilitation system within correctional facilities, noting that drug issues are a widespread challenge across Southeast Asian jails.
During the conference, the Department of Justice (DOJ) showcased its progress on various correctional projects. A key focus was the Philippine government’s proposal at the ASEAN Senior Law Officials Meeting (ASLOM) to establish the ASEAN Convention on Transfer of Sentenced Persons (ACTSP). This convention aims to enhance international legal cooperation and address transnational crime by reforming criminal justice systems across ASEAN nations, emphasizing human rights and equality.
The concept of Transfer of Sentenced Persons (TSP) was highlighted as a form of restorative justice, focusing on the rehabilitation and humanitarian treatment of sentenced individuals to aid their reintegration into society. Assistant Chief State Counsel Mildred Bernadette Alvor pointed out that humanitarian considerations are central to the TSP mechanisms.
Currently, the Philippines has active bilateral TSP agreements with Hong Kong, Spain, and Thailand. A recent agreement with the United Arab Emirates, signed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, awaits Senate approval. Agreements with Canada and the United Kingdom are also in the pipeline.
Catapang expressed gratitude to ASEAN partners for their commitment to restorative justice and the transformation of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). Justice Secretary Remulla described the conference as a unifying platform for nations working towards the common goals of life transformation and human protection.