BJMP to host ASEAN Correctional Conference in Palawan
By Chito Chavez
The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) will host the 2nd ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) from Feb. 14 to 17 in Puerto Princesa, Palawan where prison service leaders from the member countries will be in attendance.
In a statement, the BJMP said that the event marks the first time an international meet on correctional concerns is conducted in the country.
BJMP chief Director Ruel Rivera stated that the landmark gathering builds upon the topics and programs established during the 1st ARCC, held at the Malaysian Correctional Academy (MCA) in Langkawi, Kedah, last January 21-23, 2024.
He noted that jail experts from Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, Timor-Leste and the Philippines will be exchanging views and ideas during the four-day conference alongside other international organizations.
With the theme “@Weaving the ASEAN Regional Corrections Identity: Co-creating a Shared Vision of Transformation,” the ARCC will focus on key discussions about strengthening regional cooperation in corrections; transforming prison systems to address evolving global challenges; identifying root causes of correctional issues and developing joint solutions.
“Other topics will be on advancing rehabilitation, security, and alternative sentencing methods; utilizing digital innovations for persons deprived of liberty (PDL) management and profiling; and Positioning ASEAN as a global reference for modern correctional practices,’’ the BJMP stated.
The conference will also highlight the best practices in decongestion measures, prison health, aftercare and reintegration programs, preventing and countering violent extremism, parole and probation, among others.
Guided by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for Bagong Pilipinas, we are steadfast in our commitment to building a secure, just and humane society. We are confident that the ARCC will further strengthen cooperation among ASEAN nations to enhance safekeeping, rehabilitation, and reintegration efforts for PDL,” Rivera continued.