The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the National Youth Commission (NYC) that seeks to protect the rights and well-being of the youth persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) under its care.
In a statement, the BJMP noted that “the collaborative efforts reflected in the MOA underscore the joint commitment of both agencies in crafting tailored programs to address the unique challenges faced by youth persons deprived of liberty (PDL).’’
BJMP Director Ruel Rivera cited the MOA not only enhances the protection of the young PDLs involved in terrorism but also all the “youth PDLs’’ supervised the bureau, specifically the survivors and victims of gender violence, those in the LGBTQIA+ sector, abused youngsters, and solo parents.
Recorda at the BJMP disclosed that 37,804 youth PDL aged 18–30 are currently detained in its facilities, with 23 identified as children in conflict with the law and 159 facing charges related to terrorism.
By aligning its resources and expertise, the NYC and the BJMP aspire to build a more inclusive and compassionate environment, fostering the potential of each young individual within the justice system.
At present, the BJMP is implementing general programs for youth PDL, including the Alternative Learning System (ALS), skills training, livelihood, Therapeutic Community Modality Program, arts expression, and sports.
“These initiatives aim to encompass all youth PDL, ensuring comprehensive support for their growth and rehabilitation,’’ the BJMP added.
On the other hand, the NYC recently launched the Philippine Youth Development Plan (PYDP) 2023-2028 with peacebuilding and security as one of its centers of participation.
The PYDP is a comprehensive plan that aims to empower the youth through various strategies and programs aimed to address the issues faced by the youth today.
“This partnership aligns with the strategies of the PYDP which is made to empower and include every Filipino youth in all our initiatives. At kami, sa NYC, ay naniniwala na ang bawat kabataang Pilipino ay may karapatan na mabigyan ng oportunidad at suporta, kahit ano pa man ang kanilang estado sa lipunan (We at the NYC believe that every Filipino youth has the right to opportunity and support, whatever their status are in the society),’’ NYC chairperson Ronald Gian Carlo Cardema said.
“The NYC and BJMP invite stakeholders, partners, and the public to join them on this transformative journey towards a more equitable future for youth,’’ the BJMP stated.