BuCor transfers 500 Bilibid's PDLs to Iwahig Prison in Palawan
Five hundred persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City were transferred last Friday, March 27, to the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) in Palawan.
Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. said the continuing transfer of NBP’s PDLs is aimed at balancing inmate population distribution, reducing overcrowding, and enhancing security.
Catapang said that 7,500 more NBP’s PDLs will be transferred to other operating prison and penal farms (OPPFs) to decongest the NBP for its planned conversion to a government center starting 2028.
He said that the BuCor is also working hard to improve the quality of life and rehabilitation opportunities for incarcerated individuals, while managing the facility capacities more effectively.
He added that the IPPF, in particular, helps balance all these aims. “The IPPF offers a unique environment that supports agricultural work and vocational training programs, which are crucial for the successful reintegration of PDLs into society,” he also said.
Meanwhile, Catapang said that BuCor has recaptured PDL Albert Olarte who escaped from the IPPF just a week ago.
He said that Olarte, who escaped from IPPF’s minimum-security compound last March 19, was arrested last March 26 at the Eulala Park, Barangay Liwanag, Puerto Princesa City.
He also said: “The swift action taken by the IPPF Fugitive Recovery Team and the National Bureau of Investigation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to uphold security and discipline within our facilities. We will continue to strengthen our operational capabilities to prevent similar incidents.”