The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Philippines has turned over 5,000 washable facemasks and 5,000 soap bars to the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) to support the government’s efforts in preventing the spread of COVID-19 inside the New Bilibid Prison.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Enrico Gaveglia said the donation of masks and hygiene supplies is also in support of the reformation work of the BuCor for detainees who have been previously associated with violent extremism and are now in the maximum security compound.
“The reason for UNDP’s re-affirmed commitment to support the rehabilitation and reformation programs of the Bureau of Corrections despite the additional challenges brought by the COVID is because we want to humbly but firmly add a voice to our quest to shed light to the rights of detainees. We believe in the dignity of human beings above all,” Gaveglia said during the turnover held on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at the BuCor office.
Aside from the masks and hygiene supplies, UNDP Philippines also donated 1,000 comic books featuring the winning works of NBP detainees that were submitted to the Comic-Making Contest hosted by UNDP in December 2019.
The inmates’ comics creation emphasized narratives about family, trust and faith in God, service, perseverance and hope, as well as the inmates' aspirations for a better future for themselves, their families and their communities.
BuCor DDG for Administration Assistant Secretary Milfredo Melegrito cited the UNDP’s contributions to their programs to help them address and perform their mandate and mantra of ‘Reforming Lives, Community Thrives.’
The UNDP likewise donated learning equipment, such as laptops and projectors, to support Bucor’s educational and reformation programs.
The UNDP-funded partnership project has worked with the Corrections Bureau in strengthening the reformation and reintegration programs for persons deprived of liberty towards their transition to peaceful, productive, and resilient lives.