Remulla proposes BJMP-BuCor integration to address jail congestion, streamline resources

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Remulla proposes BJMP-BuCor integration to address jail congestion, streamline resources

Jeff Caparas,

ABS-CBN News

 | 

Updated Jul 02, 2025 07:55 PM PHT

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QUEZON CITY -- Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito "Jonvic" Remulla on Wednesday announced a proposed move to integrate the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).

This is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to streamline resources and reduce jail congestion across the country. 

Speaking during the BJMP’s 34th Anniversary Celebration in Quezon City, Remulla emphasized that the plan remains in its early stages and will undergo thorough consultation. 

“It is a proposal, a work in progress, and one that will be done in consultation with you,” Remulla told BJMP personnel. 

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“You must know what we are doing, how we are doing it, and be part of the integration,” he added. 

The DILG chief lauded BJMP’s efforts in reforming Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), calling their work critical to public safety despite being often overlooked. 

“Ang trabaho ng BJMP is to keep the country safer, to rehabilitate, and to ensure PDLs can return as contributing members of society. What you do matters,” he said. 

Remulla cited significant progress in addressing jail congestion nationwide, with figures dropping from 314 percent in 2024 to 296 percent this year. He also highlighted the provision of paralegal assistance to 85,183 PDLs. 

The BJMP has made strides in drug prevention as well, declaring 230 facilities drug-free and 77 more drug-cleared following unannounced inspections. 

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Education and livelihood continue to be key pillars of BJMP’s rehabilitation programs. Over 10,700 PDLs completed basic education, 107 earned college degrees under the College Education Behind Bars (CEBB) initiative, and more than 66,000 joined livelihood programs that collectively generated P116.7 million in gross income. 

During the event, former PDL Marissa Basa shared her story of rehabilitation and reintegration. 

“Ito na ako ngayon, hindi na katulad noon. Masaya ako kasi first time ko magtrabaho,” said Basa, who is now employed at city hall. 

Remulla assured the continued support of the DILG for BJMP’s mission to protect, reform, and empower PDLs, underscoring the importance of the bureau’s evolving role in the country’s justice and corrections system.

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