The Philippine Corrections October 2009 issue

Transcription

Republic of the Philippines
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
BUREAU OF CORRECTIONS
NBP Reservation, Muntinlupa City, Philippines, 1776
Telefax: +632-809-80-73
From the Director’s Desk The Awakening . . . . It’s never too late.
Throughout the years in our country's history, the treatment of people in prison evolved alongside the advancement of man's learning and understanding of fundamental human rights and aspirations. These days, prisoners are treated more humanely, neither as inanimate or unfeeling objects nor as objects them‐
selves of unscrupulous personal whims – by both their safe‐keepers and the society in general. Most of the world’s corrections advocacy is towards the transformation of inmates into becoming pro‐
ductive, responsible and law‐abiding citizens – giving them the second chance. This vision is entirely worth pursuing, though it must be translated properly and effectively, from the instructive papers and philoso‐
phies, into clear and unambiguous systems or patterns of activities; into effective and sustainable formats of implementation efforts; into sound monitoring and feedback mechanisms; into organizational readiness to respond to recognized systemic and management deficiencies; and, into leadership and management capability to review and validate the philosophy itself beyond prejudice. These are the very raison d'être which catapult the ongoing BuCor Re‐Engineering Program. And we are very grateful to report that we are already on the last leg of this long and tedious process. Sooner, we shall have the institutional correctional reforms that will truly respond and transform the lives of inmates in a very optimistic way, giving them better prospects of tomorrow. We shall also see a more dynamic and professional organization characterized by a more motivated and dedicated correctional officers. Today, as we commemorate the 104th Year Anniversary of the Bureau of Corrections and the 15th Na‐
tional Correctional Consciousness Week, we have all the reasons to rejoice for the endless contributions of every correctional officer who tirelessly whiff the air of grace and compassion to listen and share a caring heart. Together, we shall continue touching the lives of our inmates. Let us give our deepest gratitude to our very own Acting Secretary of Justice, Honorable Agnes VST Devanadera for her continued guidance and support. We are also very grateful for the assistance of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) which acknowledges the importance of the corrections pillar in the criminal justice system. USEC OSCAR C CALDERON Director |
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NEWS National Linkages NEWS National Linkages
15th National Correctional Consciousness Week and the
BuCor’s 104th Founding Anniversary Programs and Activities
Schedule of programs and activities for the 15th National Correctional Consciousness Week (NCCW) and the 104th Founding Anniversary from October 26 ‐ 30, 2009, Bureau of Corrections (BuCor). Date Activities Date Oct. 26 ‐ (Monday) ‐ ‐ ‐ Flag Raising Ceremony, followed by the “Kick‐Off” Ceremony for the week‐long 15th NCCW Celebration (with USEC Ricardo R. Blancaflor as Guest of Honor and Speaker) Opening of the Tiangge / Exhibit in front of Admin Bldg. Free Legal Assistance at the NBP Social Hall (PAO, IBP, NBI, BPP, etc) Medical Mission at the Medium Security Camp Oct. 28 ‐ (Wednesday) ‐ ‐ Activities Inmates’ Athletic Competitions (Lawn Tennis) Arts Exhibits “Concert at the Park” at the Sunken Garden Oct. 29 ‐ (Thursday) ‐ Exhibition Games (Maximum VS Medium Champions) Fashion Show sa Bilibid (in coordination with Designer Puey Quiñones) Oct. 30 ‐ (Friday) Oct. 27 ‐ (Tuesday) ‐ ‐ Inmates’ Athletic Competitions (Basketball) Cultural Presentations (simultaneous in 3 prison camps) Handog Pasasalamat at the NBP Social Hall 104th Founding Anniversary (with DOJ Secretary Agnes VST Devanadera as Guest of Honor and Speaker) Awarding of Plaque of Recognition to: Model Prison Guard; Model Custodial Supervisor; Model Civilian Employee; Model Civilian Supervisor; Model Medical Staff Awarding of Plaque of Appreciation to: BuCor Benefactors Awarding of BuCor Memento to: Former BuCor Directors Plants That Heal
It was late last year when Dr. Jaime Z Galvez‐Tan visited the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) and shared his extensive knowledge and expertise in alternative medicines to the employees and the inmates as well. He explained the wonders derived from the plants and herbs as cheaper substitute to commercial medica‐
tion. Acting promptly on this newly acquired knowledge, the Di‐
rector of Corrections, USEC Oscar C Calderon ordered the culti‐
vation and propagation of medicinal plants and the establish‐
ment of herbal gardens in the prison and penal farms. Here at the NBP main prison, a total of 16,070 seedlings of different species of medicinal plants are maintained in a newly constructed green house near the Agro area. Another green house is currently maintained at Camp 1, the former site of the butterfly garden where sambong and balahibong pusa are propagated. Last June, 2009, the Agricultural Production Sec‐
tion (APS) was able to produce herbal plants that were deliv‐
ered to the NBP hospital and carefully administered to the in‐
mates. Lagundi, Yerba Buena, Sambong and Akapulko are just some of the herbal plants propagated in the greenhouse. A short visit to the area is not only educational but also relax‐
ing. It’s worth your time. (Wilson M. Marquez) [Ed: Mr. Wilson M. Marquez, the Chief of the Agro Section.] 2
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Relief Donations from Bilibid With Love
By this voluntary effort, the inmates have shown that not even confined walls can hold back their small gesture of com‐
passion for the flooding victims. As citizens of Philippine society, it is part of our social and civic responsibility to assist those in need, especially in times of calamity. Donations are not meas‐
ured by the amount, or the volume. It is the voluntary and spontaneous help from the heart that counts, from wherever it comes, even from a small cell in BILIBID with LOVE. “BILIBID sa MuntinLUPA … sa mga taong nagbabago, MuntingLANGIT na rin,” ‐ BILIBID in this little soil… for people who are reforming, it could be a little heaven. (Warren L. Zingapan) Social Hall, New Bilibid Prison, Muntinlupa City. October 8, 2009. The Honorable Director of Corrections, USEC OSCAR C CALDERON facilitated the delivery of the relief items through the GMA‐KAPUSO Foundation. Turn‐over ceremonies were properly held in the Social Hall in the New Bilibid Prison where Atty. Felipe Gozon, CEO and President of the GMA‐KAPUSO Foundation received the relief goods from inmates and officials of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP). It was a tragic incident of flooding in Metro Manila and sur‐
rounding provinces brought about by typhoon “Ondoy” last September 26, 2009 that elicited spontaneous show of concern and assistance from all over the Philippines. Behind the walls of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City, more than 20,000 inmates watched and heard of the widespread flooding that saddened them as they felt compassionate for the victims, some of whom could be their families and friends. After consul‐
tation with inmate‐leaders and with Bureau of Corrections offi‐
cials, it has been the consensus that inmates may voluntarily extend assistance for the flood victims for humanitarian rea‐
sons. Spontaneous reactions resulted in a substantial majority signifying their willingness to extend assistance in whatever capacity to the victims of the flooded areas. As such, most in‐
mates, in their humble capacities, have voluntarily opted to share a portion of their meal ration in the form of canned goods, food items, or used clothing as their donations for the flood victims. The relief donations were gathered by inmate‐
leaders and delivered to the visiting area, eventually filling‐up half of it, and was finally transferred to the Social Hall. |
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Top photo: Inmate‐leaders prepare relief donations at the Social Hall. Below Photo: USEC Oscar C Calderon, Atty. Felipe Gozon with BuCor officials and in‐
mate‐leaders poses during the formal turnover ceremony. 3
Professional Boundaries and Informant Management Course
by the Australian Embassy
CAMP CRAME, QUEZON CITY. For the very first time, and through the efforts of USEC OSCAR CALDERON, Director, Bu‐
reau of Corrections (BuCor), the Australian government funded and facilitated the “Professional Boundaries and Informant Management Course”. It was held last Sept. 14 ‐ 22, at the In‐
telligence Training Group (ITG) facilities, Camp Crame, Quezon City. 15 security officers from the BuCor and 11 BJMP personnel attended the said course, which tackled such topics as Terror‐
ism in the Philippines, Inmate Manipulation, Red Flag Training, Work Ethics and Handling and Managing Informants. This is a continuation of the two‐week seminar on Basic Intelligence which was also funded by the Australian government, attended by 35 BuCor security personnel coming from the different penal institutions and facilitated solely by the ITG trainers. Advancing on the third week’s training were 15 BuCor secu‐
rity personnel selected from the original 35. Four (4) lecturers from the Australian Embassy shared their knowledge and ex‐
pertise to the participants. The speakers were headed by Dr. 4
Clarke Jones, Executive Officer, ASIS, Paul Stewart, First Secre‐
tary, Australian Embassy, Brendan Money, Assistant Commis‐
sioner, Victoria Prisons and Colleen Steward, Second Secretary , Australian Embassy. Lectures, role playing, question and answer techniques were used as training methodology. The BuCor personnel partici‐
pated actively in the sessions, exchanging experiences and thoughts on prison management with the Australian lecturers. As a culminating activity, the attendees were tasked to gather relevant data about a specific target ‐ the Abu Sayaff Group. Their output was then presented and evaluated before a panel, composed of Dr. Clark Jones and Ms. Colleen Steward. The Bu‐
Cor delegates gave a sterling performance during the presenta‐
tion which earned praises from the Australian lecturers. The seminar proved very valuable to the BuCor participants as they assimilated and were exposed to contemporary issues on terrorism, intelligence work, and varied perspectives in prison management. (Rexy Morales) |
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BuCor Ranks 6th Among Top IDAP Agencies Awardees
(7), for Education (4), and for Strategic Partnership (4) that needs to be properly accomplished as the agency’s corruption safeguards particularly in the area of frontline services / trans‐
actions with the public and in agency – specific critical func‐
tions, such as quasi–judicial functions and service delivery, most vulnerable to corruption. The BuCor is committed to the IDAP in relation to the gov‐
ernment’s mission to adopt a stronger anti–corruption meas‐
ures, wherein all the Penal Superintendents and Chiefs of Divi‐
sions under BuCor were directed to comply and monitor the progress of their assigned tasks using the given IDAP indicators as parameters. We have to recognize the need for collaborative efforts among BuCor officials in order to maintain and further improve our ranking in the IDAP. We need not be contented of what is good enough. We need not just be compliant, but come up with best results. We have to deliver and continue monitor‐
ing for results until we see that corruption in BuCor is mini‐
mized, if not totally put to an end. We therefore should aim for best positive results. (Supt. Catalino A. Malinao) Malacañan Palace, Manila. August 20, 2009. Honorable Director of Corrections, USEC OSCAR C CALDERON, with Penal Superintendent Catalino A Malinao and Mr. Jose O. Magno of the Operations and Plans Division, Bureau of Corrections attended the “Assessment for IDAP / MRAP – Covered Agencies for the Second Quarter Meeting for the year 2009 and Seminar Workshop to Monitor the Progress of its Implementation” held at the Heroes Hall, Malacañan Palace, Manila. IDAP stands for “Integrity Development Action Plan” while MRAP stands for “Moral Recovery Action Plan”. The occasion was highlighted by the awarding of the 1st Se‐
mester 2009 Top Ranking IDAP Implementing Agencies under the ten (10) Categories. It was with great honor and pride to note that out of the one hundred sixty‐six (166) agency mem‐
bers, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) ranked among the 6th placers in the said Awarding Ceremony, along with the Depart‐
ment of Agrarian Reforms (DAR), Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Under the government agency category, the Department of Public Work and Highways (DPWH) got 3rd Place, nobody quali‐
fied for the 2nd place, and the Department of Social Welfare & Development (DSWS) was awarded 1st Place. Whereas, the top three awardees under the Government‐owned Corporation category were awarded to the National Irrigration Administra‐
tion, 3rd place; National Housing Authority (NHA), 2nd place; and Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), 1st place. Secretary Constancia P. de Guzman of the Presidential Anti‐ Graft Commission (PAGC) personally gave the recognition award to USEC OSCAR C CALDERON. IDAP contains 22 Do‐Ables: for Prevention (7), for Deterrence BuCor Love Foundation 1st General Assembly
Chairman Arciaga, who gave the welcome remarks, led the awarding of Certificates of Membership and Certificates of Ap‐
preciation to the members of the BuCor Love Foundation’s Core Group led by Supt. Malinao, with ADC Diaz and Supt. Miranda, the foundation’s president. Board Resolutions were passed during the General Assembly. Supt. Malinao presented the Project Development Plan of the Foundation, from courseware development on reformation programs, working committees, building construction to the “wish‐lists” for the proposed formal launching of the BuCor Love Foundation’s “In‐Care and Aftercare” programs. The Secretariat ably handled the registration of members and distributed Membership Kits. This event was hosted by Mrs. Elsa A. Alabado and MSC IAC‐Chairman Cornelio C. Car‐
mona Jr., Courseware Director of the Foundation. (D. Uy) Social Hall, NBP Admin Bldg. October 12, 2009. The BuCor LOVE Foundation held its 1st General Assembly of founding members composed of volunteer BuCor officials, inmate‐leaders (from the different prison camps) and representatives from NGOs, the first of its kind in the history of the Bureau of Corrections. ADC Col Julio A. Arciaga (PAF, Ret.) and ADC Teodora M. Diaz head the Board of Trustees as its Chairman and Vice‐Chairperson respectively, with Mrs. Elsa A. Alabado, Rev. Msgr. Roberto A. Olaguer, Superintendents Armando T Miranda, Catalino A Ma‐
linao, and Antonio C Cruz as members of the Board of Trustees. ADC Diaz delivered an inspiring message on behalf of the Director of Corrections, Hon. Usec Oscar C Calderon, while Mr. Rollo Alarcon, BuCor Technical Consultant and Head of the Bu‐
Cor Re‐engineering Core Group gave key‐points bridging the ongoing re‐engineering to the foundation’s vision and mission. |
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PGMA Names Devanadera as acting DOJ Secretary;
Devanadera Vows to Work on Revitalized DOJ
MANILA (PNA) June 11, 2009. President Gloria Macapa‐
gal‐Arroyo has appointed Solicitor General Agnes VST Devanadera as acting Justice Secretary in place of Secre‐
tary Raul Gonzalez who was appointed as new chief presi‐
dential legal counsel. Deputy Presidential Spokeswoman Lorelei Fajardo said in a press briefing at the New Executive Building (NEB) that Gon‐
zalez will replace current Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Jesus Dureza who also holds the chairmanship of the Mindanao Eco‐
nomic Development Council. Fajardo said Gonzalez lobbied for the post after announcing his plan to retire in November so he can run for Iloilo City mayor next year. Devanadera was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 1977. She became Solicitor General in March 2, 2007. She is the 50th Jus‐
tice Secretary since the DOJ was founded in 1897. Devanadera was also the first and only woman mayor of Sampaloc, Quezon. Among others, she was also the first and only woman national president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines. An alumnus of Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU)‐School of Government, Devanadera is married to Noriel Devanadera. They have three children. She started her career as an account‐
ant at Carlos J. Valdes and Co. As acting Justice Secretary, Agnes VST Devanadera vowed to work on a revitalized Department of Justice (DOJ). In simple turnover ceremonies witnessed by DOJ officials and employees, Devanadera called on to prosecutors to give priority to their functions of resolving with dispatch preliminary investi‐
gation and prosecution of criminal cases well within the period of sixty (60) days as provided by existing internal policies. She also instructed prosecutors to give special attention to certain cases which are focus of the government’s effort to rid criminality. “These are cases that are not only being monitored in our country today but by international bodies as well,” Deva‐
nadera said, “We shall again pursue the things that we have done before under the general program of Bantay Katarungan by working on specific groups of cases.” She also instructed state counsels to render timely and well‐studied legal opinions to government functionaries. She tasked Chief State Counsel Ricardo Paras III to implement the zero‐backlog policy in draft‐
ing legal opinions. “The DOJ’s twin functions as the prosecuto‐
rial arm and at the same time as the government’s attorney‐
general should serve as the rallying point in fulfilling our princi‐
pal mandate of rendering an impartial and expeditious admini‐
stration of justice to the people,” Devanadera said. She also vowed to pursue the reforms that her predecessor has started. She stressed that her administration’s priority would be reform‐
ing operational processes in the National Prosecution Service Honorable Secretary Agnes VST Devanadera (NPS) and the Legal Staff for enhanced and improved perform‐
ance. “These reforms include the computerization of monitor‐
ing and management mechanism that would result to greater efficiency, improved time management and saving manpower,” Devanadera pointed out. “I will be asking every head of office to set targets so that at least they would know what to achieve. Even if we cannot resolve everything during my stint as Secre‐
tary of Justice, at least, I would like everyone to achieve their respective targets,” Devanadera added. “The electronic Prosecution Case Management System (ePCMS) will connect all NPS offices to enable real time moni‐
toring of case status,” Devanadera declared. “The ePCMS will also build a database of criminal cases subject of investigation and prosecution.” She added that other application system will be implemented on the monitoring and management of legal opinions being handled by the Legal Staff. In keeping with the Moral Renewal Program of the govern‐
ment, other reform programs being supported by the incoming Acting Secretary were the following: formulation of Perform‐
ance Standards and Evaluation of Prosecutors and the State Counsels and the Code of Conduct for Prosecutors and State Counsels. (Philippine News Agency / DOJ Website) 6
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DOJ Family Staff Meeting Held at BuCor
Distributed Certificates of Release on Parole to 26 Inmates
(26) inmates at the BuCor Social Hall, witnessed by the prisoners’ families, relatives and DOJ family. After the distribution, the Secretary and her entourage conducted a tour of the prison facilities which included a visit to the 41‐hectare government housing project and the Katarungan Village. The last stopover was the Direc‐
tor’s Quarters where lunch was served. It was a hectic day. The DOJ Ladies Circle also held its meeting at the Director’s Quarters. Secretary Devanadera met the DOJ Prosecutors before she finally left late in the afternoon. Everyone who attended the conference was given souvenir items like beaded tissue holders made by the inmates of the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW), desk clocks made by the Reception and Diagnostic Center’s inmates, etc. Everyone commended Usec Oscar C Calderon for being an accommodating and cordial host. (Bobot Diaz) Bureau of Corrections, August 6, 2009. The second staff meeting under the leadership of DOJ Secretary Agnes VST Devanadera was held at the Bureau of Corrections’ Conference Room last August 6, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. The staff meeting was presided by the DOJ Secretary with her undersecretaries: USEC Ernesto L. Pineda, USEC Ricardo R. Blancaflor and USEC Linda L. Malenab‐Hornilla, (not present were USEC Fidel J. Exconde Jr. and USEC Jose Vicente B. Salazar), DOJ proper staff and the different heads of the agencies under the Department of Justice in attendance. There were sound discussions on issues raised in the agenda which lasted until 11:00 a.m. After the conference, Secretary Devanadera distrib‐
uted the Certificates of Release on Parole to twenty six No-Lunch Break Policy for Frontline Services
In line with her thrust of reforming and strengthening the Department of Justice (DOJ), Acting Secretary Agnes VST Deva‐
nadera in a Memorandum dated July 3, 2009, directed all Heads of Agencies/Offices attached to DOJ, to institute mechanisms that will ensure transparency and improve public service deliv‐
ery by maximizing existing government resources. According to her, one way of implementing these reforms would be the adoption of a “No‐Lunch Break Policy” for all frontline services where the respective agencies/offices are engaged in. A valida‐
tion on the implementation of this policy will be conducted by the Department from time to time. In compliance with the said Memorandum and in support to the leadership of the Honorable Acting Secretary, Bureau of Corrections Director, USEC Oscar C Calderon, has directed all |
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Superintendents, Division and Section Chiefs of this agency to implement a No‐Lunch Break scheme for frontline services un‐
der their respective penal farms / areas / units that will allow longer transaction hours for the public effective July 21, 2009. With the supervision of the Officials of this Bureau, the No‐
Lunch Break Policy is now realized and all BuCor Frontline Ser‐
vices are already set to deliver prompt and efficient services to the public even during lunch break. This policy mostly applies to offices servicing the inmates’ visitors and providing information on inmates’ profiles. Action taken by the Bureau with regards to its compliance with the Memorandum was immediately reported to the DOJ Management Services Office by the BuCor Operations and Plans Division. (Bobot Diaz) 7
PGMA Leads the Ground-breaking Ceremony
Signs Republic Act 9679 known as the Pag-ibig Fund Law of 2009 July 21, 2009. Muntinlupa City. President Gloria Macapagal‐Arroyo led the Ground‐breaking Ceremony for the Gov‐
ernment Employees Housing Project at the 41‐hectare New Bilibid Prison Reservation in Muntinlupa City. The affair was attended by Vice President Noli de Castro, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, Muntinlupa City Mayor Aldrin San Pedro, Muntinlupa Rep. Rozzano Rufino Biazon, co authors in both chambers, several mem‐
bers of the House of Representatives, officials of the local government, executives of the NHA, HDCC, NDC, OP, DENR, DOJ and the BuCor. The 41 hectares will be the site of the government housing project intended for the employees of the Office of the Presi‐
dent, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Justice / Bureau of Corrections.
created the institution in 1980 and integrates all other laws relating to the agency, grants Pag‐ibig Fund with more muscle to perform its housing and provident finance mandates. Among the salient features of the new law are: Matching mandatory contributions of government and private employees and other earning groups with housing as pri‐ mary investment. Covered employees and employers shall contribute to the fund on a new scheme based on one’s earning to wit: those earning not more than P1,500 ‐ 1%; more than P1,500 per month, 2% and all employers, 2% of monthly compensation of all covered employees. The maximum monthly compensation to be used in computing employee and employer contributions shall be P5,000. The membership term in the Fund shall be for 20 years except when earlier terminated due to retirement, disabi‐ lity, insanity, death, departure from the country or other causes as may be provided by the Board of Trustees. A member of good standing shall be eligible to apply for for housing loans under such terms and conditions autho‐ rized by the Board of Trustees, taking into account their ability to pay. (Bobot Diaz, Jhun Gonzales) There are two contractors who will build the model houses ‐ the RII Builders and BAQUE. The houses and the lots to be awarded to the employees, who will be properly screened by the Beneficiary Committee, and will fall under the usufruct scheme. Earlier, PGMA signed into law Republic Act 9679 also known as the Pag‐ibig Fund Law of 2009 which Strengthens the Home Development Mutual Fund. The new law, which repeals Presidential Decree 1752 that 8
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Tunay Na Kalayaan Sa Araw Ng Kasarinlan
BuCor awarded the Orders of Release to 171 Inmates bureau-wide
Bureau of Corrections. June 12, 2009. As the nation cele‐
brated the commemoration of our 111th Independence Day, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) awarded the Or‐
ders of Release to 171 inmates bureau‐wide who were granted Executive Clemency by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal‐Arroyo through Conditional Pardon and Parole by the Board of Pardons and Parole. The program started with a flag raising at 7 o’clock in the morning followed by the ceremonial awarding of release orders with representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Parole and Probation Ad‐
ministration (PPA). The DSWD gave packs of groceries / food items to all released inmates at the New Bilibid Prison and do‐
nated two (2) wheelchairs to the two elderly and handicapped female inmates. The families and loved ones of the released prisoners were likewise invited to take part in this simple yet very memorable event in their lives i.e. “Giving second chances to the inmates.” The prisoners and their families extended their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to President Gloria Macapagal‐Arroyo, for the executive clemency granted to them, especially those inmates who were more than 70 years old as they will now spend the remaining days of their lives with their families. [Editor’s Note: 14 inmates granted Conditional Pardon; Granted Parole were NBP/CIW 102 inmates, IPPF 17 inmates; DPPF 22 inmates; SPPF 5 inmates; LRP 4 inmates; SRPPF 9 inmates. Old‐age inmates 8.] |
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NEWS International Linkages NEWS International Linkages
28th APCCA at Langkawi, Malaysia
Theme: Togetherness In Unity
Usec. Oscar C. Calderon, together with three (3) other senior officers; namely, Teodora M. Diaz, Chief Administrative Officer, Richard Schwarzkopf, Superintendent of the Leyte Regional Prison and Resurrecion Morales, Chief of the New Bilibid Prison Education Section, attended the 28th Asian and Pacific Conference of Correctional Administrators (APCCA) at Langkawi, Malaysia from November 23 to 28, 2008. The conference was attended by over 200 delegates from 25 different countries in Asia and the Pacific and it was hosted by the Malaysian Corrections Department under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The correctional administrators who attended the conference came from Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Hongkong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kiribati, Korea, China, Ma‐
laysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga and Vietnam. Macau, China has the biggest delegation with fifteen (15) correctional officers in attendance. Four agenda items were discussed in the conference which included the following: National Report on Contemporary Is‐
sues in Corrections, Balancing Prison Management with the Increased Scrutiny of Correction by External Bodies, Best Prac‐
tices in Rehabilitation for Women and Other Special Groups of Prisoners and Engaging Families and Communities in the Reha‐
bilitative Process (Including Restorative Justice Approaches) The heads of delegations presented the contemporary issues prevailing in the respective correctional institutions. It was also clearly noted that our country is the only one with unique fea‐
tures, considering that our correctional system is managed by three separate distinct departments. Likewise, our prison facili‐
ties are too congested while in other countries like Korea, Thai‐
land and Malaysia, they are in the process of building modern prison facilities purposely for the rehabilitation programs of inmates. All the prisons are now focused on rehabilitation rather than the mere custody of inmates. The group also attended concurrent specialist workshop which touched on the following issues: Developing Correctional Standards that Reflect International and Regional Best Practice, Designing Prison to Promote Effective Rehabilitation and Envi‐
ronmental Sustainability and Building Capacity through the Re‐
cruitment, Management and Retention of Talent and through Succession Planning. Aside from the conference, the whole delegation visited two prisons in Malaysia, the Alor Setar Prison (jail prisoners) and Pokok Sena Prison (maximum security prisoners) and observed the programs for the inmates. It was learned that the venue for the 29th APCCA will we at Western Australia in 2009, and the Philippines, being its regular member, hopes to attend this time with a bigger delegation, subject to availability of funds. The conference has been fruitful and enriching as the delega‐
tions continue to share insights and exchange ideas on how to improve the prison system and the various rehabilitation pro‐
grams for inmates. Despite different cultures, the 28th Asian and Pacific Conference of Correctional Administrators inculcated into everyone’s minds the theme “Togetherness in Unity” as a binding factor for all correctional officers to continuously strive in improving the correctional system in consonance with the United Nations Minimum Standards for the Treatment of Pris‐
oners. (Bobot Diaz) [Ed: The 29th APCCA shall be held at Perth, Western Australia, November 15 to 20, 2009. Theme: Making a Positive Difference] Top photo: USEC Oscar C Calderon at the 28th APCCA. Right photo: USEC Calderon with Mrs. Diaz and other delegates 10
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Yellow Ribbon Project 2008
Singapore Expo. September 8 ‐ 9, 2008. BuCor Officials led by USEC Oscar C Calderon, attended the Yellow Ribbon Con‐
ference hosted by Peter Ng Joo Hee, Director of Prisons, Singapore Prison Service. Delegates from overseas correc‐
tional services together with Singapore’s local practitioners were present to share their best practices on aftercare and the re‐integration of ex‐offenders through seminars and workshops. The Philippine Delegates included: Col Julio A Arciaga (PAF Ret.), Assistant Director for Prison and Security; Capt Crispin J Ramos (PN Ret.), Consultant; P/Supt Bartolome R Bustamante, PESE, Head Executive Assistant; PS2 Ramon M Reyes, Chief Su‐
perintendent of the New Bilibid Prison; and Mr. Alfredo C. Benitez, OIC, Administrative Division, Bureau of Corrections. Day 1 Workshop included: Strategies for Effective Aftercare by SACA ‐ Overseas counterparts; Minimizing Re‐offending through Sustained Employability by SCORE; Applications for Good Lives Model in Offenders’ Throughcare by SPS (PBS) and Prof. Tony Ward. Day 2 Workshop includes: Management and Aftercare Support for Young Offenders by MCYS‐Prisons; Chal‐
lenges Faced in Meeting the Re‐integration Needs of Offenders with Risk of Sexual and General Violence Re‐offending by Pris‐
ons and Mr. Hamish Sinclair; Family as an Integral Part of Throughcare by Ms Carol Shapiro. The 2‐day workshops started promptly at 8:30am and ended at 5:30pm. Throughout the event, everyone wore yellow ribbons. Wear‐
ing of Yellow Ribbon is an active display of the community‘s willingness to “Help Unlock the Second Prison” and a show of support for ex‐offenders and their families. Each ribbon is hand‐
made by an inmate, and symbolizes his/her hope for accep‐
tance. These yellow ribbons were available for a donation of S$2.oo each and funds raised will go to the Yellow Ribbon Fund. The Yellow Ribbon Project (YRP) of Singapore, focuses not only on success stories of ex‐offenders but more importantly the people behind who have helped ex‐offenders get back to society. “One Touch” from a community partner transforms “Many Lives” in the ex‐offenders’ circle e.g. his wife, children etc. The key focus of YRP 2008 is in the area of employment where they hope to encourage more companies which are will‐
ing to offer employment and mentorship to the ex‐offenders. Also family support is tapped, to create an opportunity for members of the public to understand the impact of imprison‐
ment on families of inmates and ex‐offenders. Earlier, Certificates of Achievement were given to reformed ex‐offenders who have made good the second chances given to them by remaining crime or drug free. Awards were also given to individuals and organizations that had come forward to offer second chances. The Crossroads, the Yellow Ribbon Journey Exhibition is an experimental exhibition showcasing the experiences of inmates, ex‐offenders and their family members for the community to gain greater insights into their lives as well as the roles that the community plays to support their successful integration. Back in the Bureau of Corrections, a similar concept is cur‐
rently underway. (Alfredo C. Benitez) At the Yellow Ribbon Conference, Singapore: From left to right: PS2 Ramon Reyes, Col Julio A Arciaga (PAF Ret.), Singapore Host‐Director Peter Ng Joo Hee (Director of Prisons, Singapore Prison Service) , USEC Oscar C Calderon, Capt Crispin J Ramos (PN Ret.), P/Supt Bartolome R Bustamante, PESE, HEA, and Mr. Alfredo C. Benitez, delegates from the Bureau of Corrections, Philippines. |
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Philippine Corrections Delegation to Australia
The Australian Embassy through its ambassador, Honor‐
able Rod Smith, invited officials from the Philippine Cor‐
rections pillar together with some authorities coming from the Anti‐Terrorism Group for a nine‐day visit to the Australian prison facilities from April 18‐26, 2009. The eight‐member team delegation was led by high ranking officials, namely: USEC. FERNANDO L. MESA, Exec. Director, Anti‐Terrorism Coordinating Council and concurrent Chief, Na‐
tional Counter‐Terrorism Group; USEC OSCAR C CALDERON, Director, Bureau of Corrections; and Gen ROSENDO DIAL, Direc‐
tor, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). Other delegations were: P/Supt BARTOLOME R BUSTAMANTE, PESE, Head Executive Assistant and Operations Officer, together with DR. CYNTHIA NUVAL‐ANDRADA, Clinical Psychologist from the Bureau of Corrections; BGEN ARTHUR R ABADILLA (Ret.) and Maj DENNIS C GUTIERREZ, Anti‐Terrorism Coordinating Council, and J S/Supt ALLAN S IRAL, Director for Operations, BJMP. Although it was a hectic schedule, visiting eight different prison facilities from VICTORIA, Melbourne and the New South Wales Corrections, Sydney, it turned‐out to be a worthwhile endeavor. The group had a chance to meet with high ranking corrective officials including Minister for Corrective Service John Robertson and Commissioner Ron Woodman, who hosted a sumptuous lunch for everybody during the last day of visit at BRUSH Farm Academy, a Training Facility, New South Wales. During each prison’s facility visit, orientation was given to the delegation; giving them good grasp of strategies on han‐
dling Australian prisoners especially those considered “high risk prisoners”. It was a different perspective seeing and personally experiencing security check through their modern facilities be‐
fore entering their prison compound. Each prison gave not only an overview of managing security for remand and sentenced prisoners, but also the rehabilitation program based on crime committed. There were exchanges of viewpoints, and the Aus‐
12
tralian prison officials were amazed on how Philippine Correc‐
tions authorities managed its huge prison population both on remand and sentenced inmates. Other highlights of the visit were their program on commu‐
nity based‐corrections for qualified sentence prisoners includ‐
ing its disciplinary measures, and the role of the Federal Investi‐
gating and Clinical Psychologist right after apprehension of the offender until his release from prison. There was also an ex‐
change of tokens from both delegations as a sign of gratitude. It was through this visit that the Australian and the Philippine government made mutual agreement to enhance its relation‐
ship on security consciousness, fighting threats on terrorism through developing cohesive strategies to such global problem, and provision of extensive trainings of personnel to the Philip‐
pine government. Indeed, the trip was a success and the Philippine delegation was very grateful for the kindness and hospitality of all the Aus‐
tralian corrective officials especially to DR. CLARK JONES, Counter Terrorism Branch Manager, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, who was with the group for the whole nine‐
day visit. (Cynthia Nuval‐Andrada, Ph.D., RDC) |
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Geneva Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel,
Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment
Geneva, Switzerland, April 28, 2009. Executive Secretary Eduardo R. Ermita delivered the Opening Statement for the Consideration of the Consolidated 2nd to 5th Periodic Reports of the Philippines under the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, at the Palais Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland, on April 28 ‐ 29, 2009. He emphatically expressed the sincerity of President Gloria Macapagal‐Arroyo on the relevance of the work of the Committee and wishes to convey her administration’s support to it. Secretary Ermita enthusiastically acknowledged the presence of the officials of the Commission on Human Rights of the Phil‐
ippines, no less than its Chairperson, Atty. Leila de Lima, a very able advocate of human rights and a renowned lawyer in the Philippines ‐ the representatives from different NGOs and CSOs, especially those who came all the way from the Philippines. He recognized the presence of a distinguished member of the Phil‐
ippine Congress and Chairman of the House of Committee on Human Rights, Representative Lorenzo “Erin” Tañada III, who comes from a line of progressive legislators in the Philippines. In manifesting the commitment of the Philippines, he intro‐
duced the officials and experts from different government agencies in the Philippines who engaged in a constructive dia‐
logue with the Committee for over two days. The Philippines was a founding member of both the United Nations and the former Commission on Human Rights. In fact, Philippines, in the person of foremost Filipino diplomat General Carlos P. Romulo, co‐authored Article I of the Universal Declara‐
tion of Human Rights (adopted and proclaimed by the General Assembly of the United Nations) which states that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” To this day, the Philip‐
pines remains committed to this vision of the Universal Declara‐
tion to attain “dignity and justice for all.” In the last six decades, the Philippine government has ac‐
ceded to eight core international human rights treaties. These are the International Covenant on Economics, Social and Cul‐
tural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimi‐
nation Against Women, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Convention Against Torture, the International Con‐
vention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and their Families, and the latest being the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities which the government rati‐
fied in April 2008. As a demonstration of confidence of the international com‐
munity, the Philippines, as an active and constructive member of the United Nations, committed to the advancement of hu‐
man rights, the Philippines was honored to have been elected as Vice President of the Human Right Council – a position it stills holds today. In this capacity, the Philippines promotes construc‐
tive engagements and dialogues within the Council and be‐
tween Council and States on human rights issues and chal‐
lenges. (Alfredo C. Benitez) Philippine Delegates headed by: Executive Secretary Eduardo R. Ermita. Ambassador Erlinda Basilio, Permanent Representative to the U.N. & other Int’l Orgs in Geneva; Usec Melchor Rosales, DILG; Justice Jose Perez, Court Administrator of the Supreme Court; Ambassador Evan Garcia, Asst. Sec., DFA; Usec. Severo Catura, Executive Director of the PHRC; Usec. Ron Salo, Office of the Executive Secretary, Office of the President; Denis Lepatan, Dep. Permanent Rep. to the Philippine Mission; Mrs. Teresa Lepatan, Minister Philippine Mission; Atty. Ricardo Gloria, Jr., DOLE; Gen. Raul Bacalzo, PNP; Col. Onesimo Banaga, AFP; Ms. Yvette Banzon‐Abalos, Phil. Mission to the UN, New York; Mr. Jesus Enrique Garcia, Philippine Mission; Atty. Herminia Ange‐
les & Atty. Arceli Ragsac, DOJ; Commissioner Miguel Apostol & Director Masli Quilaman, Na‐
tional Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP); Director Leigh Fajardo‐Garcia, Presidential Human Rights Committee; Director Leila Lora‐Santos, DFA; Ms. Josephine Reynante, First Sec., Philippine Mission; Mr. Enrique Garcia, DILG; Ms. Liezl Fernandez & Ms. Katrina Ondiano, Philip‐
pine Mission; and our very own Mr. Alfredo C. Benitez, OIC Admin, Bureau of Corrections. |
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Forest Conservation in Sablayan … World Recognized
Now renowned for forest protection and wildlife conservation is our very own Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm (SPPF) in Min‐
doro Occidental. Its pristine rainforest on Mt. Siburan is now sanctuary to several endemic species such as the Tamaraw, the Mindoro Bleeding Heart pigeon and the Mindoro Tariktik bird. Way back in 2002, with the support of the European Com‐
mission, Haribon started its conservation work on Mt. Siburan, Sablayan aptly called “Integrating Forest Conservation with Lo‐
cal Governance”. Haribon signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the government that started the fruitful partnership and opened opportunities for conservation. With the series of awareness and education seminars and team building activities were conducted in SPPF, the preparation of a Forest manage‐
ment Plan was finally perfected, the first in the province of Oc‐
cidental Mindoro. This became Supt. Transmonte’s advocacy. When Supt. Mario E. Trasmonte was designated as the Su‐
perintendent of the SPPF in 2004, he was conferred with the authority to formulate and implement policies on forest conser‐
vation within the prison reservation. From then on, Supt. Tras‐
monte considered forest protection a priority next to the Bu‐
reau’s mandate of security, custody and rehabilitation of na‐
tional prisoners. A Forest Management Office was created to ensure its implementation which also paved the way for a bet‐
ter working relationship between the DENR and the LGU. The SPPF administration strictly prohibited the cutting of trees, hunting of wildlife and charcoal making within his AOR. Joint environmental patrols were organized composed of prison guards and forest rangers from the DENR to monitor biodiver‐
sity, fallen logs and presence of illegal settlers in the area. For‐
est destruction declined dramatically. According to reports, cases of logging and other illegal activities in the farm dropped by 90% from reported incidents ten years back. Lake Libuao was developed. Picnic tables, huts and restrooms were put up to cater top the needs of local and foreign tourists. Ecotourism improved significantly. Thru an existing grant from a Japanese donor, Keidanren, Haribon further assisted SPPF in Strengthening ecotourism and bird tourism activities in partner‐
ship with the Sablayan local government. Along with these ac‐
tivities, Supt. Trasmonte strongly encouraged among employ‐
ees and inmates seedling production in more than 50 hectares of land since 2004. with the vast production of seedlings, SPPF began series of planting activities in the area. In September 2008, Supt. Trasmonte represented the country in a week‐long convention held in Argentina where six Asian countries along with 104 other countries around the globe were in attendance. He was among the lecturers and was tasked to discuss all the conservation efforts being carried out in his AOR which was highly applauded by his colleagues. The forest con‐
servation effort and wildlife conservation drive in Sablayan is now acclaimed by international environmentalist group such as the Birdlife International and the Haribon Foundation. Now that the people of Mindoro are aware of the importance of the forest and biodiversity, they are among the protectors‐
conservationists of the country. Supt. Trasmonte humbly gives the credit to Haribon which admirably changed the hearts and attitude of people from destruction to protection. (SPPF)
BuCor Re-Engineering Core Group
USEC OSCAR C CALDERON, flanked by ADCs Julio A Arciaga and Teodora M. Diaz with members of the Core Group, BuCor Re‐Engineering 14
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NEWS Local NEWS Local
CLOSE QUARTER BATTLE TRAINING FOR THE BUREAU OF CORRECTIONS’ SWAT TEAM Social Hall, BuCor, November 18, 2008. Police Chief Su‐
perintendent Leocadio SC Santiago Jr., Director, Special Action Force (SAF), Philippine National Police (PNP) was the guest speaker during the Graduation Ceremonies of the Close Quarter Battle Training Course. Cognizant of the imperative need to upgrade the knowledge and skills of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) personnel in the area of security and maintenance of peace and order, USEC Oscar C Calderon thought of providing a special training for the BuCor’s SWAT Team. The training, which was facilitated from October to Novem‐
ber last year, aimed at improving the knowledge of the partici‐
pants in the security and custody of offenders; enhance skills in securing various facilities and gain an understanding of handling emergency situations involving prisoners and other lawless ele‐
ments in prisons. In coordination with the SAF of the PNP, headed by its Direc‐
tor, Police Chief Superintendent Leocadio SC Santiago Jr, twenty eight (28) prison guards were directed to undergo the Close Quarter Battle training. The training ran for one month, and was handled by the SAF instructors. Specific topics included in the training course were Basic Safety Procedures, Fundamentals of Marksmanship, Prin‐
ciples of Assault, Tactical Mind Set for Assault Force Personnel, Introduction to Diversionary Devices, etc. The BuCor’s SWAT Team which was headed by PGIII Ricardo Sespeñe Jr. underwent a month long of grueling exercises and physical drills which tested the mettle of the attendees. Simula‐
tion of hostage taking and rescue operations were executed which provided an effective learning experience for the BuCor trainees. All in all, it was a successful training for the BuCor’s elite SWAT Team. We are now assured that any eventuality involving security and emergency situations in the BuCor facilities can be effec‐
tively handled by the SWAT Team. (Rexy Morales) |
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Top Photo: Graduates of the Close Quarter Battle Training Course; Lower Photo: PC Supt Leocadio SC Santiago Jr receives a Plaque of Appreciation from USEC Oscar C Calderon, ADC Julio A Arciaga, ADC Joselito A Fajardo and PS2 Ramon M Reyes NEWS Local NEWS Local
GMA7 / GO Negosyo Visits the College in Prisons
Medium Security Compound. Camp Sampaguita, Mun‐
tinlupa City. A week after typhoon “Ondoy” brought dev‐
astation to our country, 2 giant personalities stormed the College in Prisons last October 8. Atty. Felipe Gozon, Chairman, CEO and President of GMA 7 Network and Mr. Joey Concepcion of RFM Corporation and founder of Go Negosyo took time out to visit and give words of wisdom to the College students at the University of Perpetual Help System Extension School in Camp Sampaguita. Responding to the invitation of Atty. Karl Miranda, Asst. So‐
licitor General and Mr. Rod Cornejo, Asst. to the Pres. and Head of Community Relations, GMA 7, the two captains of the Indus‐
try delivered their inspiring messages to the students. The Col‐
lege Guild, the cultural arm of the Education Office rendered 2 special numbers to the delight of the guests. The Go Negosyo team facilitated a forum wherein success stories in the field of business were shared, after which questions of students were answered by Mr. Concepcion and Atty. Gozon. USEC Oscar C Calderon welcomed wholeheartedly the two guests and imparted to them the very reason why Entrepre‐
neurship is the course offered in College. He said that a re‐
leased prisoner finds it hard to land jobs upon release because of the stigma attached to ex‐convicts. Usec Calderon enjoined the people in the free community to give a second chance to a released prisoner as he re‐integrates into the mainstream of the society. The Training and Education Division personnel headed by Dr. Rexy Morales, joined the Director as he entertained the guests. Tokens of Appreciation were presented to Atty. Gozon and Mr. Concepcion by the Director, while two handcrafted ships made by inmates were likewise given by the Supreme Student Council President, June Biare on behalf of the whole studentry. (Rexy Morales) Training for BuCor Agriculturists and Veterinarians
Last summer this year, twenty‐eight (28) BuCor Agriculturists and Veterinarians from various prisons and penal farms at‐
tended short courses and training programs offered by the Uni‐
versity of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). Through UPLB ex‐
tension program, the said BuCor personnel were able to avail of the following short courses and trainings” 
Plant Propagation and Nursery Management of Economic Plants: May 11‐15, 2009.

Course for Pest and Disease Diagnosis and Management in Rice, Corn, Vegetables and other Crops: May 18‐22, 2009.

Goat Production and Management: June 8‐11, 2009.
The short courses and training programs were designed to update and provide practical knowledge and skills applicable to the BuCor’s various agro projects in the penal farms. The fol‐
lowing participants who were selected to undergo training are all directly involved in various agro‐livestock projects in their respective penal farms: For Plant Propagation and Nursery Management of Eco‐
nomic Plants; Wilson Marquez (NBP), Ruelito Pulmano (NBP), 16
Teresita Sta. Ana (NBP), Raceli Abuel (NBP), Silverio Alvinda (IPPF), Miguelito Dela Cruz (IPPF), Gilberto Rausa (IPPF), Madia Bangibang (SPPF), Jose Zubiri (SPPF), Herminia Arevalo (CIW), Severino Salvado (DPPF), Oscar Castaneto (SRPPF). For Refresher Course for Pest and Disease Diagnosis and Management in Rice, Corn, Vegetables and other Crops: Joel Marco (NBP), Rogelio Lajato (IPPF), Antonio Alivia (IPPF), David Molina Jr. (IPPF), Marcelo Cassanova (SPPF), Solomon Belisario (SPPF), Mamerto Nicolas (SPPF), Felipe Ruiz (LRP), Achilles Ba‐
conawa (LRP), Oscar Castaneto (SRPPF), Ramon Buendia (DPPF). For Goat Production and Management: Dr. Noel Marquez (NBP), Fernando Padua (NBP), Dr. Teddy Martin (IPPF), Do‐
mingo Colesio (SPPF), Estelito Dantayana (SPPF), Rodrigo Jabol (LRP). Likewise on May 4, 2009, the Department of Agriculture Training Institute at Lipa City conducted a one‐month training on National Training Course on Pig Husbandry. This was at‐
tended by Dr. Noel Marquez, Mansueto Pastrana, both NBP and Dr. Arsenio Sicnao of SPPF. (Marlon Morales) |
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One Bright Spot in Prisons
When Assistant Solicitor General Karl Miranda was examining the budget of the BUCOR which was submitted to the Senate for evaluation, something caught his attention. His eyes wid‐
ened as he sifted through this one little information that es‐
caped the eyes of other Senators. He was awed and couldn’t believe that there is an existing College right in the middle of Bilibid. “This is one bright spot in Prisons,“ he thought. Amazed at his discovery, Judge Karl immediately made phone calls and tried to connect with the persons in charge of the College. One sunny morning, Atty. Karl Miranda, dressed in an im‐
maculately white barong, entered the premises of the College in Prisons and submitted his resume as a volunteer teacher. That was six years ago. Throughout those times, Atty. Karl has been bringing to the College influential people both from the private and government sectors of our society. His prodding brought to the school and mingled with the students. Senator Aquilino Pimentel, Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales, Ambassador Siedfrey Ordonez, Usec Anthoy Golez, Italian Ambassador Fi‐
delis, Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban, Chief Justice Reynato Puno, Ms Imee Marcos, Mayor Jejomar Binay, Mr. George Yang of Mc Donald Co., Beth Day Romulo, Sec. Patricia Sto. Tomas, European Union Head Alistair McDonald, Atty. Adel Tamano, Ms. Cecil Guidote Alvarez, Columnist Belle Cunanan, Mr. Washington Sycip, ADB Executive Joven Balbosa, Fr. Jerry Orbos, Comelec Commissioner Rene Sarmiento, Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto Sobrepeña, Mr. Rod Cornejo of GMA 7 and lately Atty. Felipe Gozon of GMA 7 and Mr. Joey Concepcion of Go Negosyo. The College in Prisons was established in November 1984, though a tri‐partite agreement between the Rotary Club of Las Piñas, the University of Perpetual Help Las Piñas and the Bureau of Corrections. The proponents of the project thought of offer‐
ing a college degree for the inmates to help them in their re‐
integration to the mainstream of society. Entrepreneurship was the course offered so as to infuse the inmate students with skills and knowledge in establishing their own small business when they get out of the prisons. Apparently, a released pris‐
oner, competing with graduates of prestigious universities and with no criminal records, would find it doubly hard to get em‐
ployment. That is why this course was chosen, to encourage released inmates to start on their own as an entrepreneur in‐
stead of seeking employment elsewhere. Other than the business skills, the college, together with the other educational units aims to inculcate the right values to the inmate students. Character building is the foremost goal of the program. The ability to withstand failures, manage depression and view the world in a more positive way is the things taught in the classroom. Hopefully, the graduates will attain a holistic change, one that will emanate from within and will last a life‐
time. Currently, the College has produced more than 300 gradu‐
ates since its first commencement exercise in 1989. Many have come back to get their transcript of records and certifications to be used for continued schooling and employment. A significant number has likewise tried their hands in business and are cur‐
rently reaping the fruits of their training in Bilibid. Education is truly a great equalizer. Students are thankful for this opportunity. Many say that it’s really ironic….imprisonment with all its pains and agonies became a blessing in disguise. Education opened so many doors for the incarcerated. It brought hope for a new begin‐
ning. Atty. Karl Miranda was right after all. Education, the Col‐
lege in particular is ONE BRIGHT SPOT IN PRISONS. (Rexy Morales) Business Planning Sessions
for the Penal Farms Agro-Industries
For the whole months of July and August this year, Marlon Morales, the Chief of Industries Development Division (IDD) together with one of his staff visited the SRPPF, DPPF, LRP, IPPF and SPPF in that order. He made an ocular inspection of the penal farms’ agro projects and conducted a business planning conference with the Penal Superintendents and their respective Agro‐Industry personnel, as a follow up to the training courses given to them last May and June of this year. During the planning sessions, each colony tried to come up with a business strategy to improve its agro projects in order to achieve its inmate training goals and financial objectives, based on the latest information and technologies gathered from the aforementioned trainings and seminars. Likewise, the sessions |
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identified areas of improvement based on the penal farms’ re‐
source capabilities and support services. Development plans of each colony were reviewed in the process and target produc‐
tion and income were set for the next five years. On the last part of the visits, linking with NGO’s and GO’s were successfully conducted for mutual assistance and benefit in relation to each farms agro‐industries operation particularly in SRPPF and LRP. After each visit, the Chief IDD submitted a report to the Di‐
rector highlighting what transpired from the planning sessions and the issues and problems raised by the colonies with refer‐
ence to their agro‐projects. He recommended a follow‐up visit after six months to monitor and assess the farms progress based on the agreed plans. (Marlon Morales) NEWS Local NEWS Local
Moral Recovery Seminar for BuCor Staff
The Bureau of Corrections held the first of a series of Moral Recovery Seminar, last July 8 and 9, 2009 at the BuCor Con‐
ference Room. This is in compliance with Administrative Order 255, signed by no less than President Gloria Macapagal‐
Arroyo, enjoining all government agencies to facilitate a Moral and Recovery Program for its employees. Key personnel starting from Usec. Oscar C Calderon, always, the participants were clamoring for more of this Assistant Directors Julio A. Arciaga and Teodora M. Diaz, type of seminar, for they believe that this is most benefi‐
division chiefs, and section chiefs attended and partici‐ cial to the Agency. (Rexy Morales) pated actively in the seminar. Photos: Moral Recovery Seminars being held at the Iwahig Prison and Penal Three speakers who are experts in their respective Farm, and at the San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm, attended by employees. fields were invited to share their knowledge on the three main topics of the seminar. Dean Albert Buenviaje, Dean of the Ateneo Graduate School of Business, gave the first talk, which tackled on the Filipino Values with its positive and negative aspects. Atty. Cesar Tirol, Bucor’s Resident Ombudsman, on the other hand, discussed the following topics: Code of Ethics of Government Employees, Anti Red Tape Law, Rules on Gift Giving and Whistle Blowing. Capping the Seminar, is Fr. Rolando Agustin’s lecture on Christian Relationship. All in all, the seminar was a suc‐
cess, as revealed by the evaluation of the participants. As 18
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Spiritual and Moral Values Seminar for Inmates
By the Association of AFP Scout Rangers and Special Forces
(VANGUARDS)
Maximum Security Compound, New Bilibid Prison. The inmate‐members of the Association of AFP Scout Rangers and Special Forces or AFPSRSF, popularly known as “VANGUARDS”, held a Graduation Ceremony for the “SPIRITUAL AND MORAL VALUES ENHANCEMENT SEMINAR” on December 16, 2008 at the Sonlight Chapel, Maximum Security Com‐
pound, New Bilibid Prison, sponsored by BuCor and HSC, GHQ, AFP. Aside from other resource speakers, USEC Atty. Persida Rueda‐Acosta who heads the Public Attorneys Office (PAO) and one of the two guests of honor, spoke on the subject of “Legal Counseling and Healing Behind Bars”. It was her who inspired and paved the way for an Intensified Jail Visitation Program dubbed as the PAO’S Free Legal and Medical Jail Visitation and Decongestion Program which started on April 12, 2007. USEC Acosta with her excellent handling of cases opened the floodgates of reprieves and pardons among death row convicts which eventually became the precursor of the abolition of the death penalty. While the charismatic head of the PAO believes that building bigger and better detention centers is a laudable act, freeing inmates who are worthy of executive clemency is a hundred‐
fold more commendable. Furthermore, she worked doubly hard for the Aquino–Galman Case convicts to be given Executive Clemency for humanitarian considerations. She is convinced that the penalties of Reclusion Perpetua and Life Term, do not necessarily mean that inmates should be behind bars for the rest of their natural life nor should they die imprisoned based on the dictum of restorative justice. USEC Acosta is one‐role model among today’s public officials, who sincerely and tirelessly promote the welfare of the inmates. The other guest of honor, GEN Ireneo C Espino who is the Commanding Officer of the HSC, GHQ of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, was emphatic in his address considering that the inmate‐Vanguards were once elite members of the AFP’S Scout Rangers and Special Forces. General Espino lauded the organizers of the event with special mention to his Mistah – Col Rolando V Maclang, Jr. concurrently the Senior Military Adviser of Vanguards. He commended the Vanguards for initiating the Spiritual and Moral Values Seminar which he reckons as a manifestation of self‐respect, dignity and renewed sense of responsibility for the participants. He also noticed that the program of instructions is somewhat similar to a Military Career Course and was glad that this was so. The General was proud that a group of ex‐servicemen of the Armed Forces of the Philippines who are now imprisoned at the NBP, are rendering voluntary services for the attainment of BuCor’s goals of rehabilitation, correction and restoration of basic human dignity and decency, and which are directed for both the victims of crimes and injustice as well. He ended his speech by admonishing the Vanguards to for‐
give those who may have caused their pains as a way of per‐
sonal sacrifice and submission to GOD, and further reminded them that the waves of trials in life no matter how hard, may strengthen rather than weaken their spirits. Certificates of Completion were issued to the members who have completed the Spiritual and Moral Values Seminar, as well as Certificates of Appreciation to those who unselfishly helped and contributed to the rehabilitation program. (Oca Timbol) Left Photo: Vanguards Graduation Ceremony led by Col Rolando V Maclang Jr, seated from left to right: Maj Tabios, Maj Lauro T Banusing PA, USEC Atty. Persida Rueda‐Acosta, PS2 Ramon M Reyes, PSupt Bartolome R Bustamante, Dr. Erefe. Right Photo: The Vanguard‐Graduates. |
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AFP Medical and Dental Mission
Bureau of Corrections. A Medical and Dental Mission (CIVAC) by the AFP in cooperation with inmate‐members of AFPSRSF (Vanguards) and officials of BuCor, was con‐
ducted on September 5, 2008 at the Social Hall Admini‐
stration Building. The mission which started on or about 0900 Hrs., benefited some 200 inmates from the Maximum Security Compound, as well as inmates from the Minimum Security Compound. The beneficiaries were members of GOD Marshals, ALS, PSG, KA‐
KUSA Security, LAMB OF GOD, AQUINO‐GALMAN Group, CVO’S and others. The systematic entry of inmate‐patients who were grouped in batches of 20’s to the control gate, gate 1 and into Social Hall, was arranged by Rolando V Maclang, Jr. and Van‐
guard Chair Robin Q Manga. Assistant Director for Prison and Security, Julio A Arciaga was the guest speaker in the short program that preceded the Medical and Dental Mission in the presence of other BuCor Offi‐
cials. The team of AFP officials and civilian personnel who par‐
ticipated in the mission came from; Command Headquarters, 1301st GHQ Dental Dispensary, CGEASH and MP bn. Said team brought the needed medical supplies for the mission. They were under the command of General Ireneo C Espino, with PAF Major Edgardo Dioscoro S Awitan, Jr., as team leader. (Oca Timbol, Rolando V Maclang Jr) USEC Oscar C Calderon poses with BuCor Officials and GHQ‐HSC BuCor Braces Itself for Change via Re-Engineering
“The Adages,” the only thing certain is “Change, hancement of BuCor’s blueprint of programs, organizational structures, policy direction and allocation of resources. This Nothing Endures but Change, hold true for BuCor.” Change is indeed inevitable. As they say, there are three types of organizations, the one that makes things happen; the one that sits idly by and watches things happen and the one that does not know what happens. Reflecting on its Mission and Vision a century after its formation, BuCor opted to make things happen and takes up the challenge of revisiting and reviewing the direction of the institution. Re‐Engineering: The Next Big Thing Cognizant of the evolving field of corrections, it took a vision‐
ary and a pro‐active director in the person of Usec Oscar C Calderon to see the need for reshaping. Thus in conjunction with the De la Salle University College of Business and Econom‐
ics Ramon V. Del Rosario Graduate School of Business, a part‐
nership with BuCor was inked to start the re‐engineering proc‐
ess. From the work ENGINEERING which generally refers to planning, designing, and construction of structures, our re‐
engineering efforts are veered toward redesigning and en‐
enhancement effort will see the creation, abolition and merging of offices/divisions/units to implement the strategic programs of improvement. A development which focuses more on liveli‐
hood/prison industries, beefing up of its security, staffing pat‐
terns and upgrading of item positions will be put in place. After a year of grueling meetings and consultations with various stakeholders, the re‐engineering process has gained its initial taste of success when the Department of Justice has approved in part the initial phase of the project on March 3, 2009 subject to compliance with existing provisions of CSC rules, regulations and DBM circulars. As one would appropriately put it: The journey of one thou‐
sand miles toward modernization begins with step one and Director Calderon has taken that small step which may mean a giant leap for BuCor. If only with this initial feat, the director with barely two years of tenure in BuCor, has indeed accom‐
plished more than the previous administrations combined. (Akie Onella) BuCor Re‐Engineering Team is consist of: Mr. Rollo Alarcon as Team Leader, representing the Office of the Director; Dr. Cynthia Andrada, Psychologist; Mrs. Elsa Alabado from RDC, Mr. Larry Hari from the Supply Division, Mrs. Alice Novencido‐Reyes from NBP Hospital, and Mrs. Bienvenida Tupaz from the Accounting Division. Schedules: San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SRPPF) in Zamboanga City on February 11‐13, 2009; Davao Prison and Penal Farm in Davao City on February 16‐20, 2009; Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) in Palawan on February 22‐26, 2009; Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm in Mindoro on March 03‐07; 2009; and the Leyte Regional Prison (LRP) on March 10‐14, 2009. (Tommy Ferrer) 20
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Promotions and Oath Taking Ceremony
Bureau of Corrections Training Center, April 30, 2009. USEC Oscar C Calderon, Director, Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) led the promotions ceremony of 23 newly promoted custodial officers, 15 newly promoted civilian employees, and oath taking of 35 new custodial and 8 civilian employees. At the same time he gave a very inspiring message and en‐
couragement to the attendees. Newly promoted custodial officers were: ROGELIO A ALVA‐
REZ – Penal Institution Supervisor; GENEROSO G FAELNAR, BONIFACIO L LAMBIQUIT, CARLOS C MAGTALAS, ROBERT O MANDAP, GERARDO R RELOJ, MANUEL M RODRIGUEZ, NESTOR B CEREZO, and MARITES D LUCEÑO as Security Officer I; NEIL DIONISIO A BUOT , ABEL DR CIRCUELA, EUGENE P GOGORZA, MARLON E MANGUBAT, MICHAEL M MARTIN, RICARDO R SESPEÑE JR, ANTONIO D SANTIAGO JR and MACARTE M BAL‐
INGIT as Prison Guard 3; ANDRES D ANDRADA JR, PABLO P FUENTEVILLA, CEFERINO L MATUNAN, NEMENCIO S SAN GABRIEL and NONIE C FORRO as Prison Guard 2; HENRY A ORIAS as Prison Guard 1. Newly promoted civilian employees were: JULIE ANN C. GAMO – Admin. Officer V / Cashier III, Budget & Finance Divi‐
sion; ELSA A. ALABADO – Education Supervisor I, RDC; ENRIQUE D. LEGASPI – Security Guard III, NBP; EVELYN B. YAP – Nurse II, NBP Hospital; JEANIFER H. MONGE – Teacher II, CIW; MARALEX C. SERVANDE – Special Investigator I, LRP; MANUEL S. SOCRA‐
TES – Penal Institution Program Officer II, DAVID K. MOLINA – |
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Teacher II, ARTURO S. FRANCO – Food Service Supervisor I, RAFAEL C. CAABAY, ANDREW P. DELOS SANTOS, and JONATHAN R. DUGENIA – Farm Supervisors, IPPF; ROBERTO B. PERALTA – Penal Institution Program Officer I, RECELEE S. ANG – Teacher I, DPPF; CHITO R. TURALDE – Admin. Officer IV/Accountant II and SOLOMON B. BELISARIO – Farm Supervisor, SPPF. The following took their oath as new custodial officers: AR‐
MANDO G. LADIANA, RONALD ALLAN C. ALAMBRO, DEXTER M. ALCANTARA, OSMEÑA M. BARAHAMA, MIRAFLOR L. BAYOGO, RUEL Q. BELLO, GEM THERESA A. BUENAVENTURA, DONNE MARK A. CASANOVA, LAWRENCE H. CREER, ANA VICTORIA B. DEANG, GARRY S. GANUT, RICO A. GARCIA, MARILYN B. LAZO, BRYAN R. LORENZO, PAULA G. MARCELO, RICHARD R. MEN‐
DOZA, JOEL C. NALVA, WILLIAM F. NUADA, AILEENE D. OR‐
DOÑEZ, PETER CYROE R. TABAJONDA, JONS CARLOS S. TADEFA, WILFREDO R. AMA, JR., ALLAN C. TABLIZO, NORY F. VERAYO, JULET O. REGACHUELO, RODEL E. GALOPE, MARIZELLE A. TABI, MARICEL C. VENTURA, ANTONIO C. CANILLAS, JEANETTE S. JUA‐
TON, JOAN C. PANGANIBAN, JIMMY Y. IDJIRAIE, LORALYN R. CASIO, HELEN GRACE C. BALICANO, KARREN JOY P. CHUA And the new civilian employees: RUEL JOY G. LAZARO – Security Guard I (NBP), CANDY D. GONZALES – Nurse I (NBPH), MA. FE M. CABREDO – Pharmacist I (NBPH), ANN MAUREEN A. NAVARRO – Nursing Attendant (NBPH), REY O. SINGCO – Medi‐
cal Officer III (IPPF), JOHN ARNOLD S. CATOTAL – Medical Offi‐
cer III (DPPF), DOMINIC R. LIBREA – Chaplain (DPPF), EDGAR A. LAUDENCIA – Chaplain (SPPF). Congratulations to the newly promoted / appointed officials and Employees of the Bureau of Corrections! (D. Uy) NEWS Local NEWS Local
Inmates Dialogue With Bro. Mike Velarde
El Shaddai at the New Bilibid Prison
On April 30, 2009, El Shaddai’s charismatic leader Brother Mike Velarde visited the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City, and conducted a dialogue with inmates. The interac‐
tion which was held at the Social Hall was so interesting that it lasted for almost 2 hours. USEC Oscar C Calderon welcomed the El Shaddai group (DWXI—Prayers Partners Fellowship Int’l Inc.) and thanked them, most especially Bro. Mike, for sharing precious time with the inmates of NBP. Also in attendance were Monsignor Roberto A. Olaguer, the Chaplain of NBP, Dr. Calanoc, Adviser to the Director, Mrs. Velarde, Mrs. Calderon and many other personalities. Bro. Mike started with a prayer and afterwards, talked about his experience in Catanduanes in 1970 where he was arrested by the local police allegedly as the prime suspect in a murder 22
case. It was apparent that he was being framed up, but he did not know what to do at that instance. The witness who is sup‐
posed to testify against Bro. Mike had a change of heart later on, and confided that he was just being paid to do so. Bro. Mike told the crowd that he could not forget that incident for it al‐
most landed him in prison. He likewise admonished the inmates to have faith in God and that something good will happen. He told of the stories of Paul and Moses, who were formerly murderers but became preach‐
ers and led people to God when called upon. Bro. Mike said there is a reason why people are committed to prison for their misgivings and that is to know God and reform. In the question and answer portion that went on for one hour and a half, inmates from the Minimum, Medium and Maxi‐
mum Security Compounds took their turns to ask questions to Bro. Mike. The charismatic leader answered all questions and inspired the prisoners to have faith in God and not to lose faith, for soon freedom will be hand. He closed the dialogue with a prayer and blessed each one of the prisoners in attendance. After the dialogue with the inmates, Bro. Mike rested for half an hour and later proceeded to the Sunken Garden where thou‐
sands of followers from LAMP (Las Piñas, Alabang, Muntinlupa and Parañaque) waited for him in celebration of the 16th year Diocesan Anniversary with the theme: Reaching Out BuCor’s inmates. (Elsa A. Alabado) |
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NEWS In Pictorials NEWS In Pictorials
Top Photo: USEC Oscar C Calderon with PDG Jesus A. Versoza at the view deck. Below Photo: Ribbon‐cutting of Inmates’ Trade Fair officiated by Msgr. Roberto A. Olaguer. Bottom Photo: Inmates’ Livelihood Bazaar at the Manila Hotel lobby. Top Photo: Opening Ceremony led by USEC Oscar C Calderon, Chief PNP, PDG Jesus A Versoza, with PNP and BuCor Officials and employees. Below: USEC Calderon and PDG Versoza viewed the Miniature Bilibid Showcase (Main Lobby) Above Photo: Sec. Gonzalez greets some of the 103 prisoners for re‐
lease during the BuCor’s 103rd Founding Anniversary at the Social Hall. |
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NEWS In Pictorials NEWS In Pictorials
24
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Editorial
Re-Engineering
The Corrective Service
By: TEODORA M. DIAZ, Editor‐in‐Chief There are ways of improving an organization, or as the old idiomatic expression goes, there are several ways of skinning the cat. Corrections is not an ancient tradition in this country. It started during the Spanish Re‐
gime when the Spanish penal laws contained in royal decrees, ordinances, rules and regulations were ex‐
tended to the country in the mid 1800s. To date, it has evolved into a significant pillar of the criminal justice administration. Since its formal inception in 1905, several inroads in corrective approaches were initiated. Good conduct time allowance, adult probation, parole, pardon, even a system for the reduction of penalties through industry and heroism. But it stopped there. After several decades, nothing was heard of, as far as laws pertaining to corrections is concerned. In 1986, shortly after the EDSA Revolution, change was in the air. But this was short‐lived. Corrections had a brief encounter with history – the Bureau of Prisons was changed into Bureau of Corrections. The law that founded the Bureau, the Prison Law of l917, however was left un‐
touched. So a new wardrobe over an unwashed body so to speak. All that remains are compilation of measures, steps and orders – all of which would be redone, re‐
touched and repeated. Until the concept, a latter day pre‐
cept, coming as it were from industrial countries, on re‐
engineering comes along. It is not the usual “think‐out‐
of‐the‐box” thing or “re‐inventing‐the‐wheel” approach. It is a common expression when evolution could no longer handle ‐ Reengineering ‐ the next reasonable answer. A few headlines before, a group of consultants from the De La Salle Graduate School of Business headed by Dean Philip Juico, was tapped by the Bucor to assist in its reengineering and reorganization process with emphasis on the formulation of the new mission and vision, im‐
provement of livelihood programs per colony and improv‐
ing the antiquated organizational set‐up. La Salle came up with a comprehensive study. Likewise, Mr. Rollo Alarcon, a former PMAer and a police and military consultant of‐
fered to help in the detailed re‐engineering of the Bucor based on the studies of the De La Salle experts. It was a mean feat. It was never a walk in the park when dealing with a highly traditional and conservative organization like the Bureau of Corrections when it comes to the pur‐
suit of re‐engineering. Under the idea, how can an organi‐
zation like the Bureau of Corrections think aloud disturb‐
ing the manner of political appointments? Under the idea, how can an organization respond objectively in a highly subjective almost personalistic way of running prison ad‐
ministration? Note that the officers in the Bureau are never alone in their official function or formal employ‐
ment. They are joined literally by their families who are also in the organization. Talk about Meralco, San Miguel, BPI, RCBC, etc – all family corporations, similarly peopled with relatives like the Bureau of Corrections. It is just im‐
possible just to talk about re‐engineering But Alarcon did the impossible and got a startling re‐
ception with the assistance of select Bucor staff who com‐
posed the Core Group. The present prison leadership dis‐
carded any pretention at power and discussed change, encouraged re‐engineering and brought to fore an aware‐
ness that somewhere within the organization lay a hope‐
ful beginning or realization of competent leadership and management. This was just a start of course. Before, mere thought would be enough to make one a suspect. One who should bear the brunt of being blamed and alienated. Several good materials from the Bureau left for greener pastures. Those who opted to remain became indifferent and list‐
less souls and worst, became reactionaries. But not all, fortunately. There were a few who still persevered at their studies, they who would still retain the flame of ide‐
alism, of industry and competence unfettered by past abuses and debasement. They have grown in numbers and they have become agents of the present leadership in the course of re‐
engineering the Bureau of Corrections. (Mrs. Teodora M. Diaz is currently the Officer‐In‐Charge, Office of the Assistant Director for Administration, and also the Officer‐In‐Charge, Office of the Assistant Director for Reformation, Bureau of Corrections.) Email: [email protected] For your comments and suggestions, please write the Editorial Board, The Philippine Corrections, Bureau of Corrections, NBP Reservations, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila or Email at: [email protected] Visit our website for updates: http://www.bucor.gov.ph
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Special Report: The Bureau of Corrections Today
Speech Delivered by USEC Oscar C Calderon August 6, 2009 The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) formerly called Bureau of Prisons was established through Reorganization Act No. 1407 in the year 1905.
However, prisons already existed prior to its official creation – the Old Bilibid Prison in 1865; San Ramon Penal Colony in 1869; Iwahig Penal Colony in 1904. Then after the 1905’s Reorganization Act, the Correctional Institution for Women was opened in 1931 to incarcerate female offenders,
the Davao Penal Colony in 1932, Sablayan Penal Colony in 1954 and the
Leyte Regional Prison in 1973. The Old Bilibid Prison was transferred
from its original location in Oroqueta Manila to Muntinlupa in 1935 and
renamed New Bilibid Prison in 1941.
Ironically, the Philippine Correctional System is a shared responsibility of 3 executive departments: the Department of Interior and Local
Government which supervises the city, municipal and provincial jails; the
Department of Social Welfare and Development which supervises the
SALARY
SALARY
GRADE - 5
GRADE - 10
youth rehabilitation centers where the Children In Conflict with the Law
(juvenile offenders) are confined under the Bureau of Child and Youth
Welfare; and the Department of Justice which supervises the national
prisons under the Bureau of Corrections. BuCor is mandated to carry out
institutional reformation of prisoners sentenced to more than three years,
while, the city, municipal and provincial jails take custody of prisoners
YEAR
CUSTODIAL CIVILIAN
MEDICAL
INMATE
sentenced to 3 years and below and those undergoing trials.
1989
1,461
761
140
12,970
For the longest time, the Bureau of Prisons had transformed itself to
make it responsive to changes. The use of leg irons and imposition of
2009
1,461
761
140
35,452
hard labors were dropped. In 1987, pursuant to Sec. 26 of the Administrative Code of 1987, it was renamed Bureau of Corrections when the 35,452 (173% increase from 1989 population). Worst, only 2,033 posiprimary thrust was focused on rehabilitation/reformation of national pris- tions are filled up due to the government’s rationalization program.
oners in preparation for their reintegration to society. Since then, no
BuCor takes custody of 35,452 inmates as of June 30, 2009 distribmore major development transpired. While the bureaucracy has under- uted to the 7 prisons and penal farms:
gone a lot of organizational changes, the bureau remained unperturbed
 New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa, Metro Manila (20,694)
to the prejudice of the employees and the inmates as well.
In 1991, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology under the  Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong Metro Manila
(1,652)
DILG was established with a salary grade entry level at 10 which over
Iwahig Prison & Penal Farm in Puerto Princesa, Palawan (3,191)
took the BuCor entry level at SG 5. Since then, the BuCor was left be
Davao Prison & Penal Farm in Davao del Norte (5,381)
hind despite resemblance of functions.

CIW extension in DPPF (209)
Notably 20 years ago (1989), the authorized plantilla positions in the
BuCor is 2,362 (1,461 custodial, 761 civilian/admin positions & 140 medical  Sablayan Prison & Penal Farm in Mindoro Occidental (1,672)
positions) with 12,970 inmate population. Today, it’s still the same num-  San Ramon Prison & Penal Farm in Zamboanga City (1,299)
ber of plantilla positions as against the present inmate population of  Leyte Regional Prison in Abuyog, Leyte (1,354)
STATION
%
CONGEST NO. OF
CAPACITY POPULATION SHARE
ION
GUARDS
(%)
RATIO
GD:INM
1ST off
ADMISSION
Rec
RELEASES
Total
Parole
Pardon
Exp of Sentence
Others
Total
NBP
8,700
20,694
%
138%
784
1:26
1,539
509
2,048
381
17
438
71
907
CIW
1,000
1,652
%
65%
27
1:61
163
2
165
29
1
35
12
77
IPPF
3,500
3,191
%
--
123
1:25
7
0
7
55
0
71
0
126
DPPF
3,100
5,381
%
74%
195
1:28
451
7
458
106
0
94
5
205
CIW (Mind.)
200
209
%
SRPPF
1,300
1,299
%
--
83
1:15
47
3
50
30
2
26
4
62
SPPF
1,500
1,672
%
11%
72
1:23
0
0
0
32
0
39
0
71
LRP
1,000
1,354
%
35%
44
1:30
143
13
156
23
3
27
0
53
June 2009
20,300
35,452
%
75%
1,328
1:26
2,350
534
2,884
656
23
730
92
1,501
June.2008
20,300
33,591
65%
1,334
1:25
2,194
416
2,610
532
53
557
111
1,253
6% ↑
10% ↑
0.44% ↓
7%↓
28%↑ 10%↑
23%↑
56%↓
31%↓
DEVIATION
17%↓ 20%↓
Table 1 – Population, Admission and Releases 26
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NEW BILIBID PRISON
Population
Capacity
20,694
8,700
CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTION
FOR WOMEN
IWAHIG PRISON
AND PENAL FARM
DAVAO PRISON
AND PENAL FARM
SABLAYAN PRISON
AND PENAL FARM
SAN RAMON PRISON
AND PENAL FARM
LEYTE REGIONAL PRISON
Population
1,652
Population
3,191
Population
5,381
Population
1,672
Population
1,299
Population
1,354
Capacity
1,000
Capacity
3,500
Capacity
3,300
Capacity
1,500
Capacity
1,300
Capacity
1,000
For year 2009, BuCor’s budget for inmates’ food subsistence in- Bosco Institute and the Philippine Jesuit Prison Service under the sucreased from P40 to P50 per inmate per day while the medicine allow- pervision of the Reformation Office. The 1st batch of juveniles is expected to finish the course by December this year.
ance increased from P1 to P3 per inmate per day.
3. Work and Livelihood Program enhances productivity and liveliTHE PRESENT ADMINISTRATION:
hood skills to prepare the inmates economically once they are released
When I assumed office as BuCor Director in December 2007, I thought
from prison. Inmates are provided with work programs (agro-industrial
Bucor is just an ordinary office like the jails but as I observed the existprograms) for them to earn money for their personal needs and for their
ing conditions, I see a lot of potentials in terms of development and
families. MOAs and JVAs like Samsung and Tadeco are also part of
expansion of the programs for the welfare of the inmates. Development
this program that enhance inmates’ skills and provide compensation.
was so stagnant and personnel were lacking in motivation to make this
4. Sports and Recreation Program maintains physical fitness
institution known locally and internationally. Although previous adminithrough
regular sports and recreation activities. Just recently, the
strations tried to change this outlook, people are adamant as they are
Calderon’s
Cup was opened in the all the prison camps to develop inpessimistic to change and improve. I see the need to reengineer and
mates
camaraderie
and sportsmanship.
reorganize the Bucor, and so to boost their morale, I contracted a pres5. Health and Welfare Program promotes healthy lifestyle through
tigious school to start the reengineering – the De La Salle Graduate
proper health care and dietary requirements. Heath services for the
School of Business opens the avenue for change and improvement.
inmates are provided in the 500-bed capacity hospital at NBP and the
The new vision was created, that is:
other mini hospitals and clinics in the other prisons and penal farms.
“A world-class organization that provides an opportu6. Behavior Modification Program which is a behavioral change
nity to develop professional, disciplined and spirituallythat develops positive outlook in life and virtuous attitude. The therapeuguided environment for Bucor stakeholders and for intic community program is one of the BuCor’s achievements. It caters to
mates to become more productive, responsible and law
newly committed inmates specially those with drug problems.
abiding citizen.”
Since my assumption as Bucor Director, I would like to mention
While the new mission is:
some of the historical milestones and recent developments in the Bucor
“To maximize the assets’ value of the Bucor to effecwhich I am proud to say, have bridged the gap with the community:
tively pursue its responsibility in safely securing and
transforming national prisoners through responsive reha On Domestic Cooperation bilitation programs managed by professional correctional
 the forging of a MOA with the De La Salle Graduate School of
officers.”
Business to prepare blueprints of the Bureau and to come up with
To properly manage the increasing population, Bucor is reorganizing.
defined visions and missions of the institution thru reengineering
From the original organizational structure (old org structure shown) conprocess that will stand the test of time and the shifting of leadersisting of 6 divisions, we added other vital divisions (new org structure
ship.
shown) to cater to the reformation programs of the inmates. Further, an  MOA with the Rotary Club LAMPARA (Las Pinas, Muntinlupa,
additional Assistant Director for Reformation is recommended to superParanaque) will enable prisoners to seek employment once they
vise the reformation offices that will be responsible for the full implemenare released from prisons.
tation of the reformation programs which will prepare the inmates psy-  Distinguished personalities visited BuCor to give assistance either
chologically and economically once they are rejoined with their families
through donations or moral upliftment. They are Justice Reynato
and the community. A Program Management Office under the Office of
Puno who conducted joint prison fellowship; Bro. Mike Velarde who
the Director shall monitor the smooth implementation of the functions of
conducted healing mass among the inmates; Congressman Vinthe line offices and the operating units.
cent Crisologo; Asst. Solicitor General Karl Miranda; Dr. GalvezTan who introduced the herbal medicines; Bro. Armin Luistro,
With the new organizational structure, various rehabilitation proPresident and Chancellor of DLSU, Mrs. Bea Zobel, Dr. Jones and
grams are enhanced. These are the –
Mr. Bret from the Australian Government, Mr. David S. Owens Jr.
1. Moral & Spiritual Program which develops moral uprightness
and 8 other representatives from the US Department of State, Buand a God-centered prison life for total reformation.
reau of Diplomatic Security, Anti-Terrorism Assistance Office who
2. Education and Training Program provides opportunity for qualiconducted a 5-day training on Inmates Radicalization, etc.
fied inmates to undergo elementary, high school and college education.

International Cooperation:
Others are given non-formal education through vocational courses and

Attended the inauguration of the yellow ribbon project of the Singaskills enhancement. Adult literacy courses as well as alternative learning
pore Prison Service in 2008.
system are also offered. At the Muntinlupa Juvenile Training Center
(MJTC), we opened last July 1, 2009 various vocational trainings for the  Australian-sponsored visits to Corrections of New South Wales,
Victoria Corrections and Australian Federal Police.
children in conflict with the law. Courses offered are Practical Electricity,
Basic Welding Course, Computer Literacy Course, Cellphone Repair  First Singapore Prison Service - NUS - Department of Social Work
and various Livelihood Education Programs. The courses are underResearch Seminar held last March 2009.
taken through accredited TESDA instructors and assisted by the Don
(Continued on page 28)
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(Continued from page 27)






















productivity and attain food sufficiency.
Creation of the Inmates’ Transfer Board to carefully examine
cases of inmates’ transfer to and from the Penal Satellites.
 Holding of various contests for the inmates:
* 1st Acrylic Painting Competition
* Fashion Show sa Bilibid highlighting inmates clothing designs
thru the trainings conducted by fashion designer Puey Quiñones.
* Band Competitions showcasing musical talents of inmates from
the different camps tagged as Battle of the Bands.
 Putting up of herbal nursery farm for alternative medicine at NBP
and the penal farms with the assistance of Dr. Galvez-Tan.
 Promotion of eco-tourism in Sablayan and Iwahig Prison & Penal
Farm. Other penal farms to follow.
 Activation of Anti-Drug campaign through segregation of drug
offenders at the Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation Center to undertake therapeutic community program.
At present, various projects are also lined up to improve the BuCor
facilities:
 The Documents Office, the depository of all prison records, bureau
wide, has been deplorable for the past several years, with threats
of fire and collapse due to old structure, will now be totally reconstructed to safeguard and preserve the records. Shown is the perspective plan for the new Documents Office.
 Five (5) toilets in the Administration Building will be renovated.
 Construction of PTB patient wards near NBP Hospital.
 On-going construction of additional five (5) DN Ultra insulated
panel building system to ease the 136% congestion rate in the
NBP and the other prisons and penal farms.
 On-going construction of solar dryers in the penal farms for coconut and palay products.
 Regular attendance to the Asian and Pacific Conference for Correctional Administrators, the recent one was held in
Langkawi, Malaysia in November 2008.
Seminar on Human Rights at Geneva, Switzerland
Infrastructure Development/Facilities Improvement:
Improvement of Prison facilities thru the installation of 6 units
Modular DN Ultra Insulated Panel Building to house the dispensary/hospital for NBP and other Penal Institutions.
Expansion of IT project
Installation of CCTV camera at the Maximum and Medium Security
Camps.
Construction of CIW security building in Mindanao (DAPECOL)
Improvement of prime facilities such as the Admin. Façade, NBP
Hospital roofing, Hospital annex building, waterproofing of the 2nd
floor atop area of the Admin building, repair of the visitors’ and
attorney’s lounge, Hallway Floorings, Water System etc.
Construction of water supply (NBP and Leyte RP)
Human Resource Development:
Mitigating inmate radicalization by the US State Department
Deradicalization and/or counter-radicalization training seminar by
the Australian Embassy
Closed Quarter Battle conducted by Special Action Force, Philippine National Police.
Creation of the Internal Affairs Division to improve discipline
among the ranks.
Moral and Welfare Programs:
Team Building at Baguio City
Moral Recovery Seminar conducted Bureauwide
Guidance and Counseling as a Tool for Rehabilitation conducted
in Cebu City
4 in 1 Jail Visitation conducted by the CHR
Out of town conferences
The holding of free seminars for inmates and employees livelihood
projects.
Other Projects/Activities:
Maximum utilization of all arable lands to increase agricultural

With all these accomplishments, the BuCor will surely realize its
mission and vision, thereby giving justice to the Bureau’s theme:
“Reach Out and Give Second Chance… The Way to Restore the Dignity of the Inmates”.
(USEC OSCAR C CALDERON, Director, Bureau of Corrections)
[Ed: Statistics provided by PS1 Catalino A Malinao of the Opera‐
tions and Plans Division, formerly the Management Division] Highlights of the Mid-Year Command Conference






Core Group of the reengineering program to be headed by ADC Diaz to supervise the implementa‐
tion of said program in the PPFs. Core Group and PMO to prepare relocation plan of different offices to implement by August using modular type offices Superintendents to submit to the Chief Supply Divi‐
sion their double deck requirements To report to the ODC all donations and donors to be able to thank them and acknowledge their dona‐
tions during BuCor important events To send thank you letters or plaques of recognition to BuCor benefactors Superintendents to seek ODC approval before en‐
tering into contract with private contractors 28

Concerned personnel to monitor the electric con‐
sumption of inmates, to supervise the collection of charges and to organize a group in charge of collec‐
tion.  Superintendents to disallow inmates to have their own air‐conditioning units, carpets nor laptops in their rooms  Superintendents to adopt uniform formats in their reports and to make comparative analysis with pre‐
sent accomplishments/ income compared to previ‐
ous periods, e.g. 2007, 2008 and 2009.  DC likewise announced that 30 BuCor personnel will undergo training in Camp Crame in intelligence and inmate radicalization. (Fe Marquez) |
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BuCor Rehabilitation Programs
The Bureau of Corrections at present undertakes 6 “faces” of rehabilitation programs in all its prison camps, these rehabilitation programs are as follows: 1. Moral and Spiritual Programs Develops moral uprightness and a God‐centered prison life for total reformation. 2. Education and Training Programs Provides opportunity for qualified inmates to undergo elementary, high school and college education. Others are given non‐formal education through vocational courses and skills enhancements. 3. Work and Livelihood Programs Enhances productivity and livelihood skills to make them economically prepared. 4. Sports and Recreation Programs Maintains physical fitness through regular sports and recreation activities. 5. Health and Welfare Programs Promotes healthy lifestyle through proper health care and dietary requirements. 6. Behavior Modification Program A behavioral change that develops positive outlook in life and virtuous attitude. |
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Inmate Profile (In-Confinement) as of June 2009
As to Security
Classification
Total
Maximum
Medium
Minimum
As to Region
Total
NCR
Region 1
Region II
Region III
Region IV
Region V
Region VI
Region VII
Region VIII
Region IX
Region X
Region XI
Region XII
Region XIII–CARAGA
CAR
ARMM
According to
Age
Total
18 yrs. old & below
19 – 21
22 – 39
40 – 59
60 above
Unknown
As to Civil Status
Total
Single
Married
Widow
Common-Law-Wife
Others
NBP
CIW
IPPF
20694
12279
7854
561
1652
1101
461
90
3191
117
2074
1000
NBP
CIW
IPPF
20694
1652
3191
7440
1566
731
1354
2284
1881
1146
1718
1250
488
128
356
45
62
209
36
965
82
8
121
128
41
59
85
19
33
4
15
2
0
90
0
884
190
54
179
430
197
298
387
119
29
9
15
29
2
369
0
NBP
CIW
IPPF
20694
12
579
13245
6095
732
31
1652
2
18
608
943
68
13
3191
0
1
2513
670
4
3
DPPF
Female Male
209
102
81
26
5381
1196
3280
905
DPPF
Female
Male
NBP
CIW
IPPF
20694
9449
8665
312
2164
104
1652
380
610
189
239
234
3191
1797
1343
48
3
0
209
5381
38
0
3
4
1
2
3
11
2
24
37
44
9
0
0
31
27
14
5
0
1
2
8
119
22
40
2055
1591
591
714
0
192
DPPF
209
0
9
112
86
2
0
Male
5381
8
214
3033
2005
88
33
DPPF
Female
Male
209
77
85
23
12
12
30
5381
2815
2328
165
38
35
|
T h e
SPPF
1299
424
716
159
SRPPF
5590
Female
SRPPF
1672
118
1399
155
SPPF
TOTAL
LRP
1354
791
538
25
35452
16128
16403
2921
LRP
TOTAL
1299
1672
1354
35452
76
14
15
16
34
26
54
69
15
801
60
17
82
6
3
11
316
87
58
99
274
167
226
245
65
15
19
25
23
15
34
4
21
0
2
4
5
36
31
26
1206
0
8
0
9
6
0
0
9767
1953
876
1777
3157
2352
1825
2660
2698
1430
2320
2063
790
805
705
274
SRPPF
SPPF
1299
3
13
780
466
25
12
1672
0
0
1040
615
6
11
SRPPF
SPPF
1299
639
593
31
26
10
P h i l i p p i n e
1672
639
604
25
391
13
LRP
TOTAL
1354
1
197
797
321
34
4
35452
26
1031
22128
11201
959
107
LRP
TOTAL
1354
549
480
96
184
45
35452
16345
14708
889
3057
453
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According to Crimes
Committed
CIW
IPPF
20694
1652
3191
209
5381
1299
203
9
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Crimes Against Public Order
24
0
15
Crime Against Public Interest
99
0
2957
Total
Crimes Relative to Opium &
Other prohibited Drugs
Crimes Against Public Morals
Crimes Committed by Public
Officers
Crimes Against Persons
Crimes Against Personal Liberty
and Security
Crimes Against Property
1672
1354
35452
0
2
14
228
0
0
0
10
10
0
2
0
64
1
106
0
1
2
2
4
0
108
821
26
118
531
88
120
32
4693
79
0
0
0
1
0
5
0
85
7
10
0
1
20
0
0
0
38
10803
126
2005
38
2981
563
861
995
18372
4
55
0
8
57
2
8
7
141
1301
614
514
41
819
129
333
114
3865
4177
17
298
2
903
61
275
180
5913
2
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
4
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
1038
0
333
0
64
453
0
0
1888
Crimes Against the Civil Status of
Person
Crimes Against Honor
Others
Total
Illiterate
Elem. Level
Elem. Grad.
H.S. Level
H.S. Grad.
College Level
College Grad.
Vocational Course
Others
NBP
CIW
IPPF
20694
1652
3191
1031
7125
2620
4300
2518
2001
625
474
0
37
230
156
368
263
253
304
41
0
223
1402
569
601
302
70
21
0
3
According to
Religion
NBP
Total
Roman Catholic
Protestant
Islam
Iglesia ni Kristo
Others
20694
17329
711
570
1150
934
T h e
P h i l i p p i n e
SPPF
TOTAL
Crimes Against Chastity
Educational
Profile
SRPPF
LRP
Crimes Against Nat’l Security of
the Law of the Nations
Crimes Against the Fundamental
Laws of the State
|
DPPF
Female
Male
NBP
|
CIW
IPPF
1652
1319
186
101
0
46
3191
2704
254
36
0
197
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|
DPPF
Female
Male
5590
209
5381
7
48
20
59
25
27
20
3
0
335
2516
722
1087
377
254
71
19
0
DPPF
Female
209
144
2
36
7
20
31
Male
5381
4259
274
248
138
462
SRPPF
SPPF
LRP
TOTAL
1299
1672
1354
35452
116
676
122
210
77
69
19
10
0
105
768
290
286
158
56
10
2
0
207
758
57
260
54
7
6
5
44
2058
13523
4556
7171
3774
2737
1076
554
47
SRPPF
1299
967
31
135
22
144
SPPF
1672
1453
57
22
64
76
LRP
1354
1288
6
1
15
44
TOTAL
35452
29463
1521
1149
1396
1923
By Occupation
DPPF
CIW
IPPF
20694
1652
3191
209
5381
1299
1672
1354
35452
Agricultural
5582
97
1242
4
2696
697
612
958
11888
Trade & Industry
2375
854
245
131
939
38
545
37
5164
Defense & Security
1023
48
68
7
281
24
63
47
1561
585
312
31
17
189
78
49
35
1296
Trans Com. & Public Utility
1901
35
360
8
497
152
172
80
3213
Crafts & Trade
3696
47
124
20
266
45
30
29
4257
544
102
0
14
179
45
87
85
1056
4988
157
1121
8
334
220
114
83
7025
SRPPF
SPPF
Total
Administrative
Info., Arts & Rec.
Others
As to Nationality
NBP
NBP
CIW
IPPF
Female
SRPPF
Male
DPPF
Female
Male
SPPF
LRP
TOTAL
LRP
TOTAL
Total
20694
1652
3191
209
5381
1299
1672
1354
35452
Filipino
20538
1638
3188
209
5379
1297
1670
1353
35272
156
2
8
0
1
6
1
1
90
1
1
0
1
2
2
0
7
3
3
1
8
3
0
1
4
1
8
1
14
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
10
0
0
1
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
180
2
8
0
1
6
1
1
105
1
1
1
1
2
5
1
9
4
3
1
8
3
1
1
4
1
8
1
Foreigner:
African
American
Arabian
Brazilian
British
Burmese
Canadian
Chinese
Danish
Dutch
Ghanian
Hongkong(Cantonese)
Indian
Indonesian
Iraqui
Japanese
Jordanian
Korean
Liberian
Malaysian
Nigerian
Pakistan
Palestinian
Singapore
Sudanese
Taiwanese
Vietnamese
32
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BuCor’s Re-Engineering Lecture and Workshop
The BuCor in its effort to modernize and upgrade its system, conducted the Re‐Engineering Lecture and Workshop on the different penal colonies from February 11 to March 14, 2009. A total of 223 custodial and civilian personnel partici‐
pated in the training. This activity lasted for 3 days in each colony, with the partici‐
pants actively engaging themselves in every aspect of the pro‐
gram. They were basically enthusiastic because they find the lecture very comprehensive and detailed yet simple and under‐
standable since Tagalog is used as a medium of instructions. Each participant was provided with a training kit, aside from the clear book, which contained workshop forms on workloads, workflow, requirements, unpleasant observations, existing or‐
ganizational structure and proposed organizational structure. The training team assisted participants in accomplishing ac‐
tivity forms during the workshop, answered questions, gave clarifications, and checked the validity of the entries in the forms. An average of 400 sheets for corrections were being scrutinized by the training team per colony. Each colony has a designated contact person and training team in‐charge from the central office. This team in‐charge, followed‐up the deadline of the report per colony through the contact person in the colony. The same person was in charged of providing the narrative report of his/her assigned colony. The filled‐up work sheets during the training were reviewed, computerized and finalized by the core group for the apprecia‐
tion of the BuCor Director. A BuCor Re‐Engineering Monitoring Table summarized the status of the training program per colony. On the last day, a simple closing ceremony was always held wherein selected participants gave their reactions about the Re‐
Engineering Program and training. Most of the colonies gave certificates of participation to the attendees. Basic reactions from the participants expressed gratitude to the Director of the Bureau for conceptualizing a realistic Re‐
Engineering program where the voices of Bureau’s grassroots were carefully heard and given proper consideration. They also expressed high hopes that this re‐engineering will become suc‐
cessful with the help of the Almighty God. In order to attain a Bureau‐wide coordination on the concept of Re‐engineering program, each colony was also provided with a copy of the Powerpoint presentation about the Re‐
Engineering Overview, similar to the one presented during the Command Conference last January 26, 2009. (Rollo Alarcon) Davao Prison and Penal Farm Davao Prison and Penal Farm Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm Leyte Regional Prison Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm New Bilibid Prison |
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BuCor’s Slogans
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BuCor’s Slogans
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Inmates’ Corner: The BuCor Love Foundation, Inc.
WHAT IS BUCOR LOVE FOUNDATION? The BuCor Love Foundation, Inc. is your special non‐stock, non‐profit organization, composed of officials from the Bureau of Corrections and dedicated inmate leaders from the various camps of the New Bilibid Prison, having one heart and one goal – “To provide and impart to inmates who shall be released from prison – appropriate technical, livelihood, management or entrepre‐
neurial skills training that would match awaiting job placement opportunities, and lessons on viable income‐generating projects inclusive of the needed capital to jump‐start their own small‐
scale enterprise or industry once they are reintegrated back to the mainstream of society.” LOVE stands for Livelihood & Opportunities: Volunteers for Ex‐Offenders. Mission Statement on Inmates: “To inspire and motivate inmates to How will the Foundation benefit and involve the general public?
reform; to provide and impart work opportunities and skills training on
Philippines can benefit greatly from the innovative programs in the
income-generating projects for gainful employment or productive under- transformation of released prisoners as it will lessen the burden on
takings, in order to become responsible and law-abiding members of taxpayers through reducing re-offending rates and will ensure that this
the mainstream society once released from incarceration.”
country shall be a safe place to live.
Mission Statement on the Community-at-Large: “To advocate for
The Foundation shall help to create links between released prisonsociety’s awareness, compassion and acceptance towards released ers with their families and the community as it firmly believes in engagprisoners and their families’ reintegration as part of the community in ing the community to help released prisoners integrate back into the
the spirit of reconciliation and understanding.”
society through acceptance and employment. Rehabilitation can only
Vision Statement: “To achieve community acceptance in reaching out be truly effective with the understanding and support of the community.
and giving second chance, as the way to restore the dignity of inmates What are the benefits to inmates and released prisoners who are
& released prisoners for them to become fruitful citizens of the society.”
the beneficiaries of the Foundation?
Mandate: “To eradicate the stigma of released prisoners who are
Inmates who pass through the screening and management process
branded as Ex-convicts”
to be the Foundation’s beneficiaries will benefit from a seamless transition between in-care and after-care. Coordinators will oversee this transition and provide a customized program for them that best suits their
needs and their families needs.
Inmates and Released prisoners will benefit from innovative and
effective rehabilitation initiatives designed to aid their transition to become productive member of the society.
WHAT ARE ITS PURPOSES?
That the purposes of the LOVE FOUNDATION are:
1. To inspire and motivate inmates while in confinement to reform
and transform through innovative, complimentary and augment rehabilitation programs for them to become responsible and law abiding members of the mainstream society once released from incarceration;
2. To provide and impart to inmates work opportunities and skills
training on income-generating projects for gainful employment or productive undertakings upon release;
3. To advocate for society’s awareness, compassion and acceptance
towards released prisoners and their families’ reintegration as part of
the community in the spirit of reconciliation and understanding, in order
to eradicate the stigma of released prisoners who are branded as “Exconvicts”
4. To invite partners or cooperators from the government, nongovernment organizations, religious volunteer organizations, civic organizations and private sectors for implementation and logistical support among others.
5. To ensure that target beneficiaries of the program upon completion
of their trainings and upon release, or while still in confinement, shall
have become productive by way of job placements or by being engaged in income-generating activities.
Photo: Consultations & Forums with Inmate‐leaders from the different camps. How would the Foundation benefit its partner – the Bureau of Corrections?
The Foundation would certainly benefit the Bureau of Corrections in
many ways: the innovative courses that shall be developed or enhanced, the teachings and training that shall be taught to inmatebeneficiaries, the employment and livelihood opportunities while in incarceration, job placement and income-generating opportunities for
released prisoners, the advocacy to the community-at-large for understanding and acceptance, and minimizing, if not to completely eradicate
recidivism. In order words, transformation!
The Foundation can source and provide the necessary funding for
worthy projects initiated by the Bureau of Corrections in its mandate
and efforts to rehabilitate prisoners in its commitment of “Keep on
reaching out, give second chance and restoring the dignity of inmates”.
The Foundation shall be the “missing link” needed by the Bureau of
Corrections and the Parole and Probations authorities in erasing the
(continued on page 39) stigma of being “Ex-convicts”.
Photos: Core Group of BuCor Love Foundation headed by PS1 Catalino A Malinao during interactions & meetings. 2nd from the left is PS1 Antonio C Cruz, OIC‐MSC 38
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Inmates’ Corner: The BuCor Love Foundation, Inc.
(continuation from page 38)
LAUNCHING THE BUCOR
LOVE FOUNDATION, INC.
On October 12, 2009 during
the 1st General Assembly of
Members held at the Social
Hall, the Board of Trustees
instructed the Core Group to
prepare programs/activities for
the formal launching of the
BuCor Love Foundation on
December 10 to coincide with
the anniversary of the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights.
The BuCor Love Foundation
shall focus on program development thru courseware modules
in support to the six (6) faces of
rehabilitation towards reformation of inmates. In support to
the Bureau of Corrections, the
BuCor Love Foundation came
up with six (6) clusters of innovative rehabilitation programs
as follows: Moral values and
spiritual reformation programs;
education and skills enhancements training programs; work,
employment and livelihood
opportunities programs; health
services and inmates welfare
programs; sports, social and
cultural programs; and the expanded therapeutic community
program.
“Let’s all join hands and give
LOVE to our inmates and exoffenders. Let’s keep on reaching out and give them second chances… that’s the WAY to restore the
dignity of Inmates”, says Supt Catalino A Malinao.
Top Photo: Mr. Rollo Alarcon, Technical Consultant, speaking during the BuCor Love Foundation’s 1st General Assembly Meeting of founding members with members of the Board of Trustees and Guests on Octo‐
ber 12, 2009, at the Social Hall, NBP, Bureau of Corrections. Yes! Get Involved Now!
JOIN THE BUCOR LOVE FOUNDATION
 Help us spread the message
 Support our fund-raising activities
 Be a Volunteer for our activities and programmes
 Employ our Ex-Offenders
HELP FOR INMATES & EX-OFFENDERS
 Livelihood and Skills Training
 Employment Assistance and Livelihood Opportunities
 Social and Financial Assistance
 Counseling and Support Services
 Aftercare Services
The BuCor Love Foundation would like to thank our Honorable Director
USEC Oscar C Cakderon; Police Superintendent Bartolome R Bustamante, HEA; Mr. Rollo Alarcon, Technical Consultant.
For more info about the BuCor Love Foundation, Inc. on how you can
support the BuCor Love Foundation please contact the following:
PS1 Catalino A Malinao, Chief Operating Officer at 0915-8745449;
PSIV Armando T Miranda, Chief Superintendent, New Bilibid Prison at
(02) 807-2368, (02) 850-5002 loc. 122 & 123, 809-8588 direct line;
ADC Julio A Arciaga, ADC for Prison & Security at (02) 850-0192;
Rolando V Maclang Jr, Coordinator for Maximum Security Compound;
Michael S. Nuñez, Coordinator for Medium Security Compound;
Eric Felisilda, Coordinator for Minimum Security Compound; and
Oscar Timbol, Coordinator for the Reception and Diagnostic Center.
Venancio “Boy” A. Roxas Jr., The Secretariat
Photo: The BuCor Love Foundation’s Core Group in one of the regular Tuesday Afternoon Meeting circa 2008 inside the Maximum Security Compound, NBP. The Core Group is composed of inmate‐leaders from the different camps. |
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Or visit our info website at http://lovefoundation.synthasite.com or you
may email us at [email protected] (D. Uy, Overall Coordinator, BuCor Love Foundation)
Inmates’ Corner: Winners in the International Prisoners Art Competition
August 12, 2009. The Episcopal Commission on Prison Pastoral Care (ECPPC) of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) through their Executive Secretary and Asia‐Oceania Representative, ICCPPC Board ‐ Rodolfo D. Diamante formally announced the winners of the “2008‐2009 International Commission for Catholic Prison Pastoral Care (ICCPPC) International Prisoners Art Competition” which was par‐
ticipated in by more than 1,200 entries from 45 different countries. Two inmates from the Maximum Security Camp, New Bilibid Prison (NBP) were among the winners! Florante Concepcion won 2nd Prize while Virgilio Libago won a conso‐
lation prize. They received certificates and cash prize of US$700.00 and US$150.00 respectively. Entries to the said art competition were facili‐
tated thru Sr. Zenaida Cabrera, SHE Caritas Manila, IRJM Coordinator. Florante Concepcion did his winning piece in the work area of the Arts & Signs, which is part of the Alternative Learning System (ALS), Maxi‐
mum Security Compound, NBP. He trained to be an artist only last 2007 and is very surprised and proud of his accomplishment. He is now more motivated in pursuing his new craft as an artist. He would like to give special mention to Warly Susa, a co‐
inmate and mentor, who helped him in producing his winning piece. On the other hand, Virgilio Li‐
bago’s painting was done during his spare time, usually after lunch when there is serenity inside the church and in the KULAY Workshop at the LOG Multi‐Purpose Center. The con‐
test gave him an opportunity to ex‐
press himself through art, being his hobby and pastime while serving his Top Photo: (L‐R) Our Winning Artists ‐ sentence. Florante Concepcion and Virgilio Libago Winning in art competitions has motivated many aspiring inmates to express themselves through arts. The Bureau of Corrections is actively promoting and showcasing “Cultures & Arts” as part of its “transformation programs” in bringing back the dignity of inmates. (D. Uy, Warren L. Zingapan) THEME: SIGN OF LIFE by MR. FLORANTE CONCEPCION—2nd Prize Title: “ULAN” or RAIN (Topmost painting) Medium: Acrylic on Canvass Actual Size: 40cmx50cm Artists’ Interpretation: “Rain is a symbol of life that gives life to plants, animals and human beings. My artwork shows a child who is very happy with the onset of rain because of the life that will continue to live.” by VIRGILIO “BUTCH” LIBAGO ‐ Consolation THEME: SIGN OF LIFE Title: MOTHER’S CARE (Lower painting) Medium: Acrylic on Canvass Actual Size: 40cmx50cm Artists’ Interpretation: “A new born baby depicts new born hope. This is my way of expressing that there’s hope for prisoners. The mother symbolizes the Bureau of Corrections, who guides us during our stay in prison keeping that hope burning for us until the day of our release.” 40
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Inmates’ Corner: Alliance of Religious Advisory Council
Maximum Security Compound, New Bilibid Prison, August 28, 2009. The Prison Outreach Volunteers (POV) Interdenominational Founda‐
tion facilitated the Oath Taking and Induction Ceremony of the newly formed ALLIANCE OF RELIGIOUS ADVISORY COUNCIL or ARAC, under the Moral and Spiritual Develop‐
ment Division (formerly Chaplaincy Service Office) headed by Rev. Msgr. Roberto A. Olaguer, Chief Chaplain; and the Office of the Officer‐in‐Charge, Maximum Security Compound under PS1 Antonio C Cruz, ARAC Consultant. ARAC was formed through the efforts of P/Supt Bartolome R Bustamante, Head Executive Assistant, Office of the Director and Mrs. Teodora “Mam Bobot” M. Diaz, OIC, Office of the ADC for Administra‐
tion and Rehabilitation. P/Supt Bustamante, representing our Honorable Director, USEC Oscar C Calderon gave an inspiring message, and led the Oath Taking and Induction Ceremony which was held at the LOG Multi‐Purpose Center, Maximum Security Compound, New Bilibid Prison, along with ADC Bobot Diaz; Chief Chaplain Rev. Msgr Bobby Olaguer; PS1 Antonio C Cruz; PS1 Catalino A Mali‐
nao, Spiritual Adviser of the Inmates Christian Council & Found‐
ing Director of the BuCor Love Foundation; Rev. Chae Myong Yi (Rev. James Lee), BuCor Special Chaplain & Founder of the Ko‐
rean Ark Mission of Los Angeles Inc. (KAMOLA), and Ptra. Myrna Surmion, Secretary of BuCor Love Foundation and Inter‐
national Missionary & Head Minister of Jesus is Alive Full Gos‐
pel Christian Ministries Inc. PS1 Antonio C Cruz welcomed guests and participants from the different religious & prison organizations in his Address and gave an inspiring song number. ADC Bobot Diaz shared her words of encouragement as she tackled the significant programs of the Honorable Director, while Rev. Msgr. Olaguer spoke about the functions of ARAC. ARAC served as the main body of all religious and prison or‐
ganizations with a purpose to unite the various Religious Volun‐
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teer Organizations (RVOs) operating inside the Maximum Secu‐
rity Compound. It also promotes and supports the various pro‐
grams and projects under the moral and spiritual transforma‐
tion of the BuCor for the welfare of inmates. Talented inmates who are members of the POV‐Maximum Performing Artists and MEC Entertainers Guild rendered special numbers during the event which was supported by the Council of Elders, Peacekeepers, Marshalls, Vanguards, Pastoral Secu‐
rity Group, Max. Auxiliary Brigade and Fire Brigade through PSO2 Danilo C Dador, Commander‐of‐the‐Guards, Maximum Security Compound. The event was hosted by Ptr. Nestor G Tuguinay and Bro. Ferdie O. Sioco. The newly inducted ARAC Officers and Coordinators are: Ferdinand “Ferdie” O. Sioco, Chairman & CEO; Ptr. Rommel Deang and Uztadz Yusop A. Tada, Vice Chairmen; Ptrs Joseph Humiwat & Ronald Labrador, Executive Secretaries; Ptrs. Melandro Nicolas & Gregorio Penoblar, Ways and Means; Bro. Armando Cabuang & Ptr. Nestor G. Tuguinay, Church Relations Officers; Bros. Edgar C. Cawayan, Arnel P. Sanal, Rudy Amahan & Enrique Labayne, Business Managers; Ptr. Eddie Sentero & Bro. Gerry Biong, Auditors; Bros. Reynaldo Belocura & Austin Williams, Outreach Coordinators; Ptrs. Melchor Intendencia, Randy Lleno, Anthony V. Sendigo, Bros. Romeo J. Joble, Reynaldo S. Lababit, Ernesto Ramirez Jr., Domingo P. Dalmacio, Rogelio M. Malagutnot, Alfredo D. Nucup, Nestor Andalan, Mark Morabe, Jimmy C. Disono, and Vic Noo, Auxiliaries; Bros. Jose M. Belas, Rico P. Macapua & Sevillano Delos Reyes, Liaison Officers; Ka Ricky Baustista, Saidamen M. Macabalang, Ptr. Al‐
bet Tan Soi Tee, Bros. Sindad Molivas, George Williams, Robert Gungon & Restituto Pabalan, Advisers; Rev. Enrico “Red” Dizon, Bros. Rodolfo V. Fernandez & Alfonso Serrano, Consultants, headed by PS1 Antonio C Cruz, OIC Maximum Security Com‐
pound as Executive Consultant; and Rev. Msgr. Roberto A. Olaguer as Spiritual Director. ARAC Officers’ first General Meeting at the PhilSol Theologi‐
cal Center, their temporary office, was focused on the activities for the upcoming 15th NCCW. (Ferdie O. Sioco) 41
Featured Article: Prison School Offers Degrees for Inmates
By Edson C. Tandoc Jr. Philippine Daily Inquirer 08/24/2009 MANILA, Philippines—When 38‐year‐old Dalmacio Gordon Jr. finally leaves the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City—where he has spent 16 years of his life—one of the first things he’ll do is find the complainant who sent him to jail and say: Thank you. He will also be carrying with him his BS Commerce diploma and say: “I would not have finished college if you did not send me to jail.” Gordon is one of the inmates at the prison’s Medium Secu‐
rity Compound who earned a degree from the University of Perpetual Help Delta System (UPHDS) Extension School operat‐
ing inside the prison. Another 38‐year‐old inmate, who prefers to be called simply Vic, has more than one diploma. He has four, counting the three he earlier earned in jail for completing three vocational courses. Gordon is in jail for robbery. Vic is serving time for robbery with homicide. The UPHDS Extension School doesn’t easily give up on people viewed by some as social outcasts. In a pamphlet, it says it seeks to “provide inmates with the opportunities to develop themselves professionally, socially, culturally and spiritually, so that the bitterness, apathy, indiffer‐
ence and hopelessness because of long empty years of incar‐
ceration may be replaced with a sense of hope, dignity, self‐
respect, self‐reliance and faith in the goodness of man and of the Divine Being.” The prison school only offers Bachelor of Science in Commerce, a course designed to help inmates start their own business after serving their terms. Similar books, curricula The so‐called ex‐convicts usually find it difficult to find jobs, said Assistant Solicitor General Karl Miranda, one of the volun‐
teer teachers at the prison’s campus. Miranda invited the Philippine Daily Inquirer to the prison school on Friday for a read‐along session attended by about 200 inmates. Some 200 of the 6,000 inmates at the Medium Security Com‐
pound are currently enrolled in college. Inmates at the com‐
pound are those serving terms of between three and 20 years. The prison also offers alternative learning programs for pre‐
school, elementary and high school levels accredited by the Department of Education. Thus, the curricula and books they use are similar to those that regular public school students use. A new life Gordon was only 16 when his father died. Even if he had only finished Grade 3, he inherited the responsibility of supporting his mother and seven younger siblings in Iloilo. Life became harsher when, at 21, he got married. To support his family, he did something he knew was wrong. He robbed a company—and got caught. His wife was five months pregnant 42
when he went to jail. Gordon was transferred to the Medium Security Compound in July 1983. It would have been easier for him to just give up on life but he wouldn’t. “I told myself that since I was still very young, maybe I can start a new life here,” Gordon said. Bittersweet day Gordon took an exam and qualified for Grade 5. He decided to pursue college after he finished high school. He also volunteered to be a member of the compound’s In‐
mate Custodial Aide, which helps guards keep inmates in line. It took Gordon eight years to complete the four‐year, BS in Commerce major in Entrepreneurship course. Finally getting his diploma was bittersweet. He cried during his graduation. Those were tears of happiness: “It is really different when you have a degree. I have more respect for myself after finally getting what I worked hard for.” Sad day, too But those were also tears of sadness. He received three med‐
als—loyalty award, athlete’s award and award for the perform‐
ing arts. But no relative was there to witness the best day of his life in prison. His siblings, wife and son stayed in the province. They could not afford to visit him regularly. Gordon said his only son, now 17, stopped going to school after reaching first year high school. When he finally gets out of prison—and he prays it will be soon—Gordon said he would work hard to send his son to school again. Gordon said he hoped his experience would be a lesson for his son: “I was already old but I never gave up on hoping that I would be able to finish college.” Restoring dignity The campus inside the prison started in June 1984 through an agreement between the University of Perpetual Help Rizal‐
Las Piñas, Rotary Club of Las Piñas and Bureau of Corrections. “We know that many of the inmates already have corrupted values and their morale is very low,” said Victor Fajardo, the extension school’s assistant officer in charge. “Through educa‐
tion, we want to give them back not only their dignity but also the proper values.” Every year, the school accepts about 80 new students. They must have finished high school and should pass an entrance test and an interview. Though the school wants to accommodate more inmates and rebuild more lives, Fajardo said funds were limited. Private do‐
nations have slowed down. Volunteer professors Fajardo and some 10 other school officials and teachers are (Continued on page 43)
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Featured Article: Prison School Offers Degrees for Inmates
Itaas Elementary School Annex Muntinlupa National Extension University of Perpetual Help High School Extension School
actually employees of the Bureau of Corrections and working for the school is an extra work on top of their regular duties for the prison. The UPHDS sends three teachers to the prison’s school. Twelve professors are volunteers from big schools and hold weekend classes for free. Private donors gave the school a tele‐
vision set, a library and some computers. The prison also has an annex of Itaas Elementary School, where 67 inmates are enrolled, and Muntinlupa National Exten‐
sion High School, which has 179 students. Both have their own school buildings inside the compound. Inmates enrolled at any school level get to stay at a campus dorm, separate from the regular prison cells. Lone cum laude Far from the stereotyped violent and empty prison life, the inmates at the compound try to live a normal school life: They elect a student body government. They have a school band. And there is a school choir. Fajardo is proud that many of the graduates have become better individuals on leaving prison. He is even prouder of one graduate, who is already freed but returns to the prison every week, this time as a college teacher: He is the school’s first and, so far, only cum laude graduate. Some other graduates, with still a few years to serve in prison, have also become teachers for fellow inmates at the elementary level. Vic’s diplomas One of them is Vic, who completed his three vocational courses while at the Maximum Security Compound. In Vic’s cell, four diplomas are displayed—one for his Com‐
merce degree and the others for his courses on computer re‐
pair, automotive and practical electricity. Living in prison almost killed his hope. “I would cry while eating because I would remember I used to eat with my family,” said Vic, who was sentenced to a mini‐
mum 20 years for robbery with homicide in 1992. “Here, I am alone. There is nobody to take care of me when I get sick.” PRISON IS PEOPLE |
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Education in BuCor But the opportunity to be in college—which he never had outside prison—kept his hope alive. It was his childhood dream to be a teacher and in the last four years, Vic has been teaching math and science at grade school. Some of his students are inmates much older than him. One of his joys is that even behind bars, he remains free not only to improve himself but also help others. Featured Article: Managing Youth Offenders in Custody
Treatment and rehabilitation of youth offenders, also known as the Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL), is an implementation of the constitutionally‐declared policy that “the State recognizes the vital role of the Filipino youth in nation building and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellec‐
tual and social well‐being…” (Sec. 13, Art. II 1987 of the Philippine Constitution). The past few years have witnessed decisive actions in the treatment and handling of the juvenile offenders confined in the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor). In the year 2002, the BuCor under the instruction of the Department of Justice came up with a special training program for youth offenders. It was de‐
signed to attend to the various needs peculiar to the youth in prisons. This program is in consonance with the national and the international laws pertaining to the welfare of incarcerated juvenile offenders with emphasis to the concept of providing protection of human rights, as well as conducting modalities on behavior reformation. This program is important in dealing with the young offenders and to adminis‐
ter appropriate training and treatment, that would effect the elimination of fac‐
tors contributing to criminality. These are accomplished by: (1) analyzing problems presented by the juvenile offenders, through the use of every available tech‐
niques such as social investigation, medi‐
cal / psychiatric examination, educational and vocational, religious and recreational studies; (2) deciding in staff conference a program of treatment and training based upon analyzed information; (3) ensuring that the program decided upon is placed into operation; and (4) observing the ef‐
fectiveness of program being imple‐
mented. The criminal behavior of a youthful of‐
fender has multiple causes and therefore, treatment must therefore be multi‐
faceted. It is viewed that just as the crimi‐
nality of the youth in a given case has ordi‐
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narily developed from a number of interrelated influences, the correctional management of the juveniles must be done through various assessed programs which likewise must be in‐
terrelated, so as to effectively eliminate those influences. In the BuCor, one of the facilities provided for the juveniles is the Muntinlupa Juvenile Training Center (MJTC). It has a capac‐
ity of 24 residents at a time. The juveniles undergo several vo‐
cational skills training programs like welding, automotive diesel mechanic course, practical electricity and computer literacy. This facility was constructed through the assistance of the Ja‐
pan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Thirty nine (39) youth offenders have been released from MJTC since its incep‐
tion in 2003. Other juveniles are housed at the Youth Rehabili‐
tation Centers (YRC) of the New Bilibid Prison and the other penal colonies of the BuCor, where they also undergo voca‐
tional trainings. Those juveniles who would like to pursue their formal schooling are enrolled in the education program like elementary, high school and college literacy. Side by side with the Literacy and Skills training program are sports, cultural and recreational activi‐
ties that help strengthen their physical make up and at the same time develop their artistic talents. These activities re‐
lieve boredom and provide a balanced day to day activity for them. At present, there are over 200 juveniles in the custody of the Bureau of Correc‐
tions. (Elsa A. Alabado) [Ed: Article contributed for the APCCA Newsletter from the Bureau of Correc‐
tions, Philippines under the leadership of Undersecretary Oscar C Calderon.] |
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Featured Article: Re-Engineering the Bureau of Corrections
The present leadership of the Bureau of Correc‐
tions (BuCor) un‐
der the direction of Usec Oscar C Calderon, who assumed office on December 28, 2008, has envi‐
sioned a re‐
engineering pro‐
gram for the entire Bureau including the seven penal farms nationwide to uplift the ser‐
vices of the Bureau to be at par with the international standards and to bring back the dignity of man even in the con‐
finement of the correctional facilities. This program includes the short term development efforts to translate available budg‐
etary and existing resources into programs addressing organ‐
izational restructuring, computerization, training and re‐
training on key BuCor personnel, automated monitoring and implementation of rehabilitation program, comprehensive live‐
lihood projects, anti‐crime efforts, and facility re‐development to lower congestion rates. This program is also guided by the principle that the most of those who became successful in their endeavors do not neces‐
sarily have the best of everything, rather, they just made the most from the least that they have. The good Director undertook this re‐engineering program systematically by taking every step with care and certainty. To prevent integration of inappropriate reforms in the bureau, he first conducted evaluation of the BuCor system instead of mak‐
ing outright and drastic changes during his first months in of‐
fice. He assessed the system of operation, existing equipment and ongoing projects. For instance, existing personnel and their present jobs were assessed to determine the applicability of their skills to their present positions. Inventories of all existing computers were also conducted to determine their potential utilization in the new BuCor computerization program. To carry out this program effectively, Director Calderon cre‐
ated a cross‐ functional team ‐ Core group, who will conduct and provide documentation of assessment efforts, program development proposal, strategic planning for implementation, monitoring scheme of program implementation, technical specification, design and installations, personnel training, and management of the actual program implementation. Cross functional teams are temporary groupings which are more flexible and responsive. They can address bureaucratic problems more effectively because they have the capability to |
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easily assemble, deploy, refocus, and disband com‐
pared to tradi‐
tional permanent groups like the existing depart‐
ments in the bu‐
reau. Moreover cross functional teams can coordi‐
nate complex pro‐
jects, develop new ideas and solve problems faster, and integrate in‐
formation across department lines . They are em‐
ployed, since the late 1980s up to the present, by large corporations like Toyota, Ford, General Electric, Boeing Co. and Hewlett Packard, to name a few. This cross functional team becomes the central coordinating center where all inputs relevant to BuCor’s re‐ engineering pro‐
gram for division and department with‐in the bureau and from institutions outside the bureau are recorded, filed, analyzed and evaluated. In short this cross functional team acts as the Transformation program Team of the Bureau. This team is rep‐
resented by the bureau’s selected division heads and chaired by one of BuCor’s efficient administrators. The other members of the team are technical experts on different professional ar‐
eas working on a contractual basis (renewable every six months). This team is expected to produce specific and quanti‐
fied assessments of present Bucor problems that become grounds for the question “Why Re‐Engineer BuCor?” This team will also identify 10 key results areas of the re‐engineering pro‐
grams. The priority projects under this re‐engineering program will also be scheduled by this team. Finally, the team will for‐
mulate provisions for sustainability of operation on all transfor‐
mation projects particularly in terms of budgetary resources, personnel replacement and re‐training, equipment mainte‐
nance and replacement, and on policy revisions and amend‐
ments. This team will handle short, medium and long‐term transformation projects in a span of 5 years including turn over procedures during leadership change to assure continuous pro‐
ject development. With our all‐out support to the reform efforts and ingenuity of our kind director, this re‐engineering program will succeed and redound to our own benefits. (Rollo Alarcon) [Ed: Mr. Rollo Alarcon is the Technical Consultant of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and Head of the BuCor Re‐Engineering Team.] 45
Featured Article: Caring for Others
Aside from value formation, considered as a vital link in pris‐
oners’ rehabilitation, is health care. Given the period from January 1, 2009 to June 30, 2009, the NBPH has served 9,466 inmates and 171 civilians. A glimpse of the overall services rendered/delivered by the hospital personnel, include the Medium Security Camp, the Minimum Security Camp, Building 14 and the civilian commu‐
nity are: 
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On diabetes treatment there is a team headed by Dr. Melanie B. Duran, MO III, supported by a selected team of energetic nurses and lay educators.
PTB‐DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment) team headed by Dr. Ma. Cecilia V. Villanueva, MS I, BuCor‐TB Coordinator, ably supported by an untiring selected team of nurses.
We have the “Kapuso Team” who looks after patients with cardiac problems under the able supervision and care of Drs. Ma. Lourdes M. Razon and Ruth B. Algones.
We have psychiatric patients ably taken cared of by Dr. Mary Lou V. Arbatin.
Dermatology Ward under the care of Dr. Josefina S. Salileng, MS I.
Medical Ward, patients admitted in this ward have other medical complaints and is under the care of all our doctors.
The surgery ward takes care of inmates with surgical problems under Drs. Rolando A. Lazo, the hospital surgeon and Benevito Fontanilla, our anesthesiologist.
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EENT section under the supervision of Dr. Gloria A. Garcia, Acting Chief of Clinics.
Radiology Section (X‐Ray) under the supervision of Dr. Cynthia P. De Lara, MS I
Clinical Laboratory Section headed by a laboratory manager, Dr. Ma. Lourdes M. Razon and a licensed Pathologist, Dr. Monina Montenegro with three licensed Medical Technologists.
Dental Section with 2 dentists, Dr. Consolacion Alvarez, DMD and Dr. Eddie Villanueva, DMD.
Pharmacy with three pharmacists, Mr. Roberto Agustin, Ms. Ma‐
lou B. Palad and Ms. Ma. Fe C. Chavez.
The Nursing Service Section under Mrs. Teresita D. Castrillo, Chief Nurse.
Our doctors and nurses have been conducting lectures to our inmates relative to their field of specialization and on personal and environmental hygiene. The NBPH have coordinated with Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care of the Department of Health, through the efforts of Dr. Gloria A. Garcia, to teach some hospital personnel and inmates to iden‐
tify some herbal plants and their use in the cure of some ail‐
ments. Every now and then, medical and dental missions were conducted in our facility and donations of medicines and food‐
stuff were enjoyed by inmates through the assistance of NGOs and the Philippine Jesuits Prison Service. (Melinda M. Alipe, M.D., Chief of Hospital, NBPH) Featured Article: DOTS……. K na!
Directly Observed Treatment Short‐course or simply “Tutok Gamutan” is a strategy advocated by the Department of Health (DOH) on the management of TB (tuberculosis). A patient diag‐
nosed to have TB will be provided with a complete six‐months anti‐TB medications to be taken daily under the supervision of the DOTS team. For the last 5 years, TB is among the leading causes of mor‐
tality and morbidity not only in our institution but in the coun‐
try as well. Incarceration increases the incidence of the disease due to overcrowding, poor referral system and laxity in patient compliance. 2007: As Medical Specialist In‐Charge of the TB Ward, I pat‐
terned the TB program of the hospital to the DOTS strategy. The major constraint I encountered was the lack of anti‐koch’s / TB medications for diagnosed inmate/patients. I approached DOH‐
IDO (Infectious Disease Office) through its director, Dr. Jaime Lagahid, who is very much willing to help but with a compro‐
mise that reports should be submitted regularly, and I was also asked to present our TB program at PHILCAT Convention, 2007. 2008: “Task Force TB”, ICRC/DOC enjoined agencies like BJMP, DILG, BLGD, DND and BuCor to look into the problem regarding the said disease. As an offshoot of this meeting of the minds it has been reached upon that the primary focus would be the management of TB in prisons/jails. After a series of workshop and writeshops, the penultimate event, MOU signing 46
for the operational guidelines in the management of TB prison/
jails which was held at the BuCor Conference Room during the celebration of NCCW 2008. 2009: The full implementation of DOTS in Prisons/Jails culmi‐
nated at the NBP by the end of 2008. NBP is now considered a DOTS Service‐Providing Facility Treatment Center with regular quarterly allocation of drugs from CHD (Center for Health De‐
velopment) – DOH. The TB prevalence survey among inmates/
prison guards was conducted within our facility last July. For the second time, I presented at the PHILCAT Convention the recent developments in our TB Program. What does the future hold? Still, with the assistance of DOH, ICRC and most especially our agency, I hope to look into the TB program of other colonies, to train other health staff on DOTS strategy and to strengthen tie‐ups of our colonies with their respective DOH‐CHO (City Health Office) or PHO (Provincial Health Office) for proper drug allocation. The building inaugurated last NCCW 2008 is not called Annex 2 which houses those under treatment for TB. A new one which is presently being constructed will house those who will un‐
dergo MDR (Multi‐drug resistant) treatment. So much so, when you ask me now… Kumusta ang DOTS? Simply I can say its, “K na!” (Dr. Achelle V. Villanueva, TB Coordinator)
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Featured Article: The Korean Ark Mission of Los Angeles, Inc.
The Korean Ark Mission of Los Angeles, Inc. (KAMOLA) is a non‐stock, non‐
profit organization duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commis‐
sion. KAMOLA was founded by the REV. CHAE MYONG YI (popularly known as Rev. James Lee to the local inmates), a Korean missionary based in Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. His missionary work in the Philippines begun when he ar‐
rived on March 16, 1996, winning souls for Christ by teaching and preaching God’s Word in Agoo, La Union. And in a span of almost 7 years (1996‐2003), by the grace of God, he was able to put up 6 churches in the said province. When God called him into prison ministry, he entrusted the stewardship of KA‐
MOLA Churches to his Filipino Pastors . He visited the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) sometime in July 2003 and started his min‐
istry on September 1, 2003 inside the different camps of the New Bilibid Prison. Seeing the need to help inmates reform, KAMOLA launched its Spiritual and Moral Values Formation as its first priority program for inmates. The program aims to help inmates attain a totally rehabilitated life during incarceration to Rev. Chae Myong Yi conducts Water Baptism prepare them for their eventual re‐integration into the free society. As such, they will be guided towards a meaningful and productive life, leaving behind their old lifestyle and never to return to prison again. As the congregation Rev. Chae Myong Yi inside NBP Maximum Dorm grew, the KAMOLA built churches within the different camps of the New Bilibid Prison.  NBP‐Medium Security Compound – September 2005  NBP‐Maximum Security Compound – December 2005
 NBP‐Minimum Security Compound – August 2006
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Top Photo: KAMOLA Inmate Church Workers at the KAMOLA Church inside the NBP Maximum Security Compound. Sitting L to R: Pastor Joseph Humiwat aka Manuel Gano Jr., Rev. Chae Myong Yi (Rev. James Lee) and Deacon Joe Faller. Standing L to R: Bros. Michael Avelino, Amacio Garbida, Deacons Alex Condez, Mario Pedronan, Bros. Menegilio Salonga, Federico Roldan Jr., Deacon Pablo Lusabio Jr., Trainee Pastors Richard Guilas, Servillano Cezar Jr., Deacon Gavino Copreros, Bros. Carlito Claro and Alejandro Dacanay. KAMOLA Church inside the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm, Occidental Mindoro The latest addition is the KAMOLA Church in Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm, Occidental Mindoro which was recently built in May 2009.
To ensure the growth of inmates in their spiritual and moral values development, bible studies are conducted in different dormitories of every prison camp. (Continued on page 48)
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KAMOLA Minimum Security Compound
Featured Article: The Korean Ark Mission of Los Angeles, Inc.
Worship Service are being conducted every Lord’s Day in all the KAMOLA Churches at 9:30 A.M. Rev. Chae Mong Yi delivers his sermons weekly in the different churches. Inside the KA‐
MOLA Church, NBP–Maximum Security Compound, Pastor Jo‐
seph Humiwat Jr. aka Manuel Gano Jr. is always at hand to translate Rev. Chae Mong Yi’s sermon in English to Tagalog, although Rev. Chae Mong Yi have already learned to speak and understand Tagalog though not fluently. KAMOLA also provide free regular medical missions by volun‐
teer doctors and medical practitioners from Korea. Another worthy program of the KAMOLA is to provide shel‐
ter to newly released inmates who have no place to stay. A 5‐
hectare property was recently acquired at Sablayan, near the prison and penal farm, to be developed as a dwelling place for newly released inmates who really want to live a peaceful and productive life. KAMOLA’s future plans and projects include: 1. Build KAMOLA Churches at the other penal colonies: Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm, Davao Prison and Penal Farm, San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm, and Leyte Regional Prison.
2. Build deep well for water supply (Jetmatic Pump) possibly in all prison and penal farms for the benefit of inmates.
3. Develop the 5‐hectare land at Sablayan by planting rice and vegetables, and by raising cows and goats to generate in‐
come for the support of church workers and provisions for the inmates’ basic needs and improvement of living conditions.
KAMOLA’s fund support comes from donations by KAMOLA members/benefactors living in America and Korea. According to Rev. James Lee, “To serve the Lord is to con‐
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Top 2 Photos: Medical Missions conducted by Doctors and Medical Practitio‐
ners from Korea at KAMOLA Churches. Photo Above: a deep well water pump recently built at the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm for inmates. Rev. Chae Mong Yi (Rev. James Lee) pumping water for an inmate member of KAMOLA. tinue serving the less fortunate inmates till my last breathe, thus completing my mission here on earth.” (Ptr. Manuel Gano Jr., Ptr. Red Dizon and Bro. D. Uy) |
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Featured Article: Basic Training for Religious Volunteers
Basic Training for Religious Volunteers (RV) Working Within the BuCor: This training will not exempt you from attending the institutional training that is required of every RV in every pris‐
ons & penal farms of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) through the Chaplaincy Service Office. This information is meant to go beyond that training, unless you have been allowed into the 2‐6 week training courses that are required of all staff. Not all RV within the BuCor will go through this form of intense training and for those who don't, this information will be vital to you. Principles of Volunteer Conduct Religious Volunteers (RV) should observe the following conduct: 1. Be honest in all your endeavors. Never be untruthful when communicating with the staff, inmates, visitors, victims and other volunteers. Be willing to challenge unethical behavior. 2. Hold yourself to the highest standards of moral, personal and professional conduct. 3. Treat everyone with respect. 4. Establish trust by being creditable, consistent & accountable. 5. Take responsibility for our actions. 6. Be a good citizen by abiding the laws and setting example with this behavior. 7. Maintain your safety. Volunteer‐Inmate Relations As a volunteer it is important that you maintain a profes‐
sional demeanor when working with inmates. You should be within the confines of the rules at all times. You should always treat the incarcerated humanely, pleasant but be firm. Follow through on appropriate request. The Chaplaincy Service Office prefer it if you address the inmates by their last name. There are areas that on the outside would be classified as confidential information, but inside a correctional setting they may not be, such as counseling sessions that discuss suicide, harming another, participating in a riot or any other activity that threatens the security of the facility. All of these activities must be reported to the Chaplain of that facility and if they are not available, then you must report it to a correctional officer immediately. Failing to do so, could cost you the ability to be a volunteer at that facility or any other facility and maybe even criminal charges filed against you. So be careful in this area. Behavior that is classified as unprofessional or unacceptable is listed below: 1. Romantic contact with an inmate, whether it be physical, in writing, verbal or via telephone. 2. Non‐religious contact or visits with an inmate, inmate's fam‐
ily member or friend. 3. Giving or receiving letters, phone calls, money, telephone numbers or anything else that is not authorized by policy to or from an inmate, their family members or friends. 4. Failure to obey all rules or report violations. 5. Accepting loans, gifts, or services from inmates or their fam‐
ily members. 6. Talking about personal matters with an inmate. (ie. getting personal in a manner to where we are sharing our personal problems and not being there for the purpose.) |
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7. Showing favoritism or doing favors for an inmate or having them do favors for us. Any violations of misconduct can result in legal and personal consequences, as well as resulting in a change of policy for your faith group, or all faith groups within not only that facility, but the BuCor. So make sure, you do not violate any of these rules because the consequences can affect more than just your‐
self. Be aware that every facility has guidelines on how to deal with each infraction. Inside the system, there are those that intentionally will at‐
tempt to set up a volunteer, staff, or other individuals that they come into contact with. This section is not meant to imply that every individual within the correctional system behaves in this manner, but to make you aware of those that do and to insure that you do not fall victim to the games that some may play. The RV should not be easily provoked or manipulated into situations that distract because to do so might jeopardize per‐
sonal safety or the safety of others. The average inmate game takes approximately 19 months to complete. There are five (5) aspects of the set up team: 1. The Observer: This individual is responsible for collecting information about others who may provide information to them for money or other favors. 2. The Contact: This individual is the one who provides the information to the set up team. 3. The Runner: This individual violates the rules to test the volunteer and is paid by the set up team. 4. The Point Man: They stand guard while an illegal act is tak‐
ing place. 5. The Turner: They are the leader or the brains behind the operation. There are three (3) phases of the inmate set up and 14 steps: 1) Technique: This phase describes how the inmates conduct the setup. In this phase the information is gathered and the target is selected. A. Observation: The inmate watches the volunteer on a regular basis while inside the facility. They observe what you bring in, what people are saying about you, body language, listen in on your conversations with others and your responses to sugges‐
tions of illegal behavior, probably a minor infraction to see if you will do it, to get your reaction. B. Selection: Inmates categorize victims into 3 categories: Hard: Strict and inflexible Soft: Trusting, overly familiar, naive. Mellow: Knows when to be hard, when to be soft and when to apply each method/approach appropriately. They are comfortable in their volunteer positions. C. Test of Limits/Fish Testing: This is the process used to compromise the volunteer and leave them in real trouble. It includes the process of pursu‐
ing; bending, breaking, and circumventing the minor rules to determine how far the manipulator can go before the volunteer takes action such as reporting them. (continue on page 50) Featured Article: Basic Training for Religious Volunteers
(continue on page 49) 2) Tools: This represents resources used by inmates to turn RV. D. Support System: The inmate is always there to support you, will pledge faith, trust and devotion to the RV. E. Empathy/Sympathy: Empathy bases itself on a shared under‐
standing, experience, or a vicarious experience of feel‐
ings, thoughts or attitudes. It forms a bond. Sympathy is where you feel sorry for the individual without understand‐
ing the problem. F. Plea For Help: At this point, the turner will ask the RV for things which they know are against the rules. G. We/They Syndrome: Inmates will try to play the RV against the staff. Making it you and the inmate against "them." H. Protection: They will stage events to make it look like they are protecting you either from other inmates or staff. They have done you a favor, expecting you to return the favor. I. Allusion to Sex: To the female volunteer the motive is usu‐
ally frequent sex and to the male volunteer is to create a bond and this allusion can be used as a lever. J. Touch System: For the male RV this usually consists of handshaking, pats on the back, placing one's hands on the shoulder to form a closer bond. For the female RV it may consist of straightening a collar or picking lint off of a collar or touching of the arm when assisting her through an open door. K. The Rumor Mill: Rumors are a means of pulling the target away from the support of the staff within the facility. They will start a rumor which will cause management to closely observe the volunteer or called in for questioning. 3) The Turnout: This is the stage when the Turner makes their wants or demands known to the volunteer/victim. L. Shopping List: This exposes the set up and the point where the inmate makes their wants known. M. The Lever: The lever is the device that will force the volun‐
teer to break the law, which means you have already bro‐
ken a rule and do not want to get caught, so you just keep digging your hole deeper. N. The Sting: After you have done everything asked of you, they turn you in. Many of us wants to believe that everyone has good inten‐
tions when they are coming to our religious groups, and I feel strongly that we should give them the opportunity, but at the same time, be aware of behaviors that could lead you down a path that is not so innocent. If you notice behavior that is in direct violation of the rules, let them know, that you are legally required to report these violations and that if the behavior con‐
tinues, that is exactly what you are going to do. By being honest and upfront about things, it can save you a lot of heartaches and problems. Something as simple as mailing a letter for an inmate can turn into an illegal action because it could go to their victim and be a threat or it could be a message they are sending out to someone to harm another, request drugs or etc. Hostage Situations Each facility has their own policy, but universally they do not do hostage negotiations. So, if you are ever grabbed as a hos‐
tage, do not believe for a moment that you will be out of crisis until the situation is under control and why the BuCor will have you sign a document stating you understand this fact. Should you ever be in this situation, these are some important things you need to keep in mind and remember: 1. Do not look them directly in the eyes. 2. Do not assume you are smarter than they are. 3. Do as you are told. 4. Don't try to be hero. 5. Do not show your fear, stay calm. Other Information Once you drive onto the property of the BuCor, they have the legal right to search your body, your possessions and your vehicle. If they suspect drug or alcohol use they have the right to test you right there on the spot. Also, be aware of the dress code of each facility, even though you may go to several in a day, you may need to keep an extra couple of suits within your car so that your attire is able to meet the dress code policy in each facility you meet within. Compiled by the RDC Inmates’ Christian Council (ICC) for the BuCor Chaplaincy Office (REV. MSGR. ROBERTO A. OLAGUER)
LITERARY: Contributed by Bro. Danny Martinez, RVO From JESUS WITH LOVE WORK WITH ME When you work with Me as your partner on the job, you’re working with the most multitalented, multitasking partner in the universe. I truly can do anything and everything! Look at Me not only as a spiritual guide and counselor, but as someone who can actually get in there, roll up His sleeves, and help you do the work. I can save you hours and hours of work time by taking care of the behind‐the‐scenes side of things. I will even take care of situations before you have to get involved. Tell Me specifically what you want to see done, and leave it with Me. Don’t worry or fret about it, and don’t keep checking up on Me to see if I’m on the job. Of course I’m on the job! Have faith, and your faith will bring out an entirely new dynamic in our rela‐
tionship. This is the key to your success: Let Me carry a good chunk of the load, which is exactly what I want to do. Commit things to Me in prayer. Depend on Me, and let Me do the “heavy lifting.” I can easily remove obstacles that look insurmountable to you and help things to fall into place as they should. Give Me a chance to help you out, to do some of the work. 50
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Literary
Sa mga pagsubok na tila walang hangga. Dito! Ang Panginoon ang aking Pastol, Siyang Kaagapay. Siya ay Dakila, Puspos ng kaalaman, Ako’y Kanyang sinusubok sa panahon ng kagipitan. Kung magtitiwala ako Ang Panginoon Ang Aking Pastol at manghahawakan, (Hango sa Awit 23:1) Sa Kanyang pangako By: PSUPT CATALINO A. MALINAO at walang hanggang katapatan. Ang Panginoon ang aking Pastol, Sa mga gawi kong liko, Siya ang Patnubay. ako’y Kanyang sinasaway, Patnubay? Saan? Pinarurusahan ako kung kinakailangan, Sa sariwang pastulan? Pagka’t anak na itinuring Hindi! Hindi kadalasan. minamahal na mainam, Sa mga dakong maulap, Di Niya nais mapahamak palibot ay kadiliman, at gantimpala’y di kamtan. Mga dawag at siit ang pawang nakahalang, Kaya’t kung pagsubok Sa baku‐bakong landas sa buhay ko’y dumating man, na aking tatahakan, Di na maghihinagpis, Sa mga hilahil at balon ng kahirapan. di na magdaramdam, Dito! Ang Panginoon ang aking Pastol, Bagkus Siya’y pupurihin Siya ang Patnubay at pasasalamatan, Pagka’t pagsubok lang Siya ang nagtutustos ang tanging paraan, sa lahat kong kailangan, Upang mapatunayan ko at maranasan, Di ako namalimos kailan man ng tinapay. Na Siya nga’y nasa akin, Mapapait na luha ko sa matinding lumbay sa puso ko’y buhay. Kanyang pinapalitan ng luha ng kagalakan. Kaya’t isang pasiya ang binuo sa isipan, Na sa paglalakbay ko Ang Panginoon ang aking Pastol, anuman ang kasapitan, Siya ang Patnubay. Maging sa pagsubok o kaginhawahan, Patnubay? Saan? Titiwala lamang at maninindigan, Sa mga tubig ng batisan? Pagka’t Panginoon ang aking Pastol Hindi! Hindi sa tuwi‐twina. Siya ang patnubay Sa mga bagyo at unos ng buhay, Ang Panginoon ang aking Pastol, Sa malalaking alon ng panglulupaypay, di ako mangangailangan. Sa mga pagbabata, sa mga pakikipagbaka, USAPANG HAYOP By: Noel M. Marquez, DVM “Mommy, ampon lang ba ako?” This is probably the question bothering lit‐
tle piggy as she sucks milk from mommy dog. “Why do I look differ‐
ently from Mommy and Daddy?” Per‐
haps poor little piggy is suffering from identity crisis. But anyway, mommy dog is such a nice mother she lets little piggy feed on her milk and share it with |
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other puppies (not in picture). Animals can be kind and loving too! This photo was taken last May 2009 when I was at‐
tending a seminar at International Train‐
ing Center on Pig Husbandry at Lipa City in Batangas. By the way, just a piece of information, a mommy dog is actually called a bitch. So when someone calls you “son of a bitch”, he actually says that you are a cute puppy! 2 0 0 9
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Inmates Literary Corner AFTERTHOUGHTS (Benito San Joaquin, OD) For we are all travelers and hik‐
ers in life’s convoluted pathways Unmindful of the thousand and one dangers poised for a kill at every bend We fear not and absolutely nothing will make us know Only the occurring events to teach us the lesson of present day Amid the land of broken dreams bubbled the sigh of a devastate From the quietness of deep soli‐
tude where stillness lay calm and void Incessantly echoed the hoarse cry of the dammed and the chuckle of a bygone Hope rekindles thought of home and family… it is the last thing to die, say me And so I am coming home to San Joaquin town… the Lord Jesus Christ lights my way… And my soul, God restored in New Bilibid Prison… Through RDC Muntinlupa I’ll pass to my freedom Nameless, homebound… must I thread the path parched and scarred by the ever flaming sun But never fearing the challenge of the new day. 52
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The Philippine Corrections October 2009 issue

Transcription

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