More persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City can now avail themselves of the Bureau of Corrections’ (BuCor) online visitation program called “E-dalaw.”
In a statement, BuCor said the enhancement of its “E-dalaw” program was made possible through the donation of 97 laptops and equipment by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).”
BuCor Acting Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. led the bureau in the turn-over ceremony of the laptops and equipment from ICRC representatives -- Protection Coordinator Mariko Ivkov, Deputy Protection Coordinator for Detention Chyngyz Rayimbekov, Detention Field Officer Sarah Jane Salimbagat, Public Relations Officer Rachel Malaguit, and Digital Officer Lorenzo Arada.
“E-dalaw is just one of the many reformation programs offered by the BuCor to give support to the PDLs in terms of mental health,” BuCor said.
It also said the online visitation program is also in accordance with the Nelson Mandela Rules of the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (UNSMRTP) which states that “prisoners shall be allowed, under necessary supervision, to communicate with their family and friends at regular intervals: (a) By corresponding in writing and using, where available, telecommunication, electronic, digital and other means.”
It said that during the visit of ICRC officials, “Acting Director General Catapang briefly discussed the plans and development, especially showcasing the Roadmap from 2023 to 2028 toward attaining a modernized institution.”
“This also includes the regionalization of the prison facilities nationwide that will boost the decongestion strategies of the BuCor,” it said.
TAGS: #BuCor #E-dalaw #ICRC #Red Cross #NBP PDLs