The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) on Tuesday, Nov. 19, banned its officials, employees, and visitors from using cellular telephones inside prison facilities nationwide.

The ban was contained in a memorandum issued by BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. to all directors, directorate chiefs and heads of offices informing them of the prohibition that is imposed without exception to all commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, civilian personnel, visitors and other persons entering the bureau’s headquarters and its operating prisons and penal farms (OPPFs).

“Maraming magrereklamo na personnel natin sa bagong policy na ‘yan pero kailangan nating gawin para talagang wala ng makagamit ng cellphone sa loob (Many of our personnel will complain about this new policy but we have to do this so that no one can use mobile phones inside the facilities),” Catapang said.

Under the memorandum, Catapang ordered the superintendents of the OPPFs to enhance security screening by conducting thorough inspections at all entry and exit points to prevent the smuggling of cellular phones and perform regular facility checks including random inspections of prison dormitories and work areas of Bucor personnel for prohibited devices.

“Any cellular phone or related devices discovered shall be immediately confiscated and reported to the appropriate authorities for proper documentation and disposition while personnel found to be complicit in the unauthorized entry or use of cellular phones will be subjected to administrative and criminal sanctions,” Catapang warned. 

With the cellular telephone ban, Catapang has ordered the procurement of more two-way radios as an alternative mode of communications within the facilities.

“We need to invest in two-way radios as a strategic move aimed to eliminate the reliance on smuggled cellphones, which have become a significant issue in correction facilities, often leading to illegal activities both inside and outside the walls,” he said.

He also said: “By providing with controlled access to two-way radios, BuCor can create a safer environment ensuring that all exchanges are monitored and regulated, thereby reducing the risks associated with unregulated cellphone use. This proactive approach not only addresses the problem of contraband but also underscores BuCor's commitment to improving prison safety and operational efficiency."