In celebration of the 119th Founding Anniversary of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), 284 personnel were officially promoted to higher ranks, while outstanding personnel received special commendations. The culmination ceremony was held at the Administration Building Façade of the National Headquarters in Muntinlupa City on November 15, 2024.
The event, which capped off a week-long series of activities honoring BuCor’s storied history and achievements, was graced by Assistant State Prosecutor BIENNEMAR R. REGALA. Representing UNDERSECRETARY DEO L. MARCO, ATTY. REGALA extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Bureau, emphasizing its vital role in the country’s justice and corrections system.
Among the 284 promoted personnel, 92 are Commissioned Officers, 176 are Non-Commissioned Officers, and 8 are Civilian personnel. DIRECTOR GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR. AFP (Ret), CESE, CCLH administered the oath of office of newly promoted personnel.
As part of the ceremony, certificates of recognition were awarded to standout personnel who demonstrated exceptional service and dedication. Among the awardees were:
- CT/SUPT NOEL M MARQUEZ – Model Senior Commissioned Corrections Technical Officer
- CTSO3 Ronald B Abais – Model Senior Non-Commissioned Corrections Technical Officer
- CTSO1 Necita G Boncales – Model Senior Non-Commissioned Corrections Technical Officer
- CSO1 Diodam M Morata – Model Senior Non-Commissioned Corrections Officer
- CTO3 Ron Rheinielle Chavez – Model Junior Non-Commissioned Corrections Technical Officer
- CTO2 Lucia E Santos – Model Junior Non-Commissioned Corrections Technical Officer
- CTO1 Joy I Valencia – Model Junior Non-Commissioned Corrections Technical Officer
- CO1 Jan Marc T Balingit – Model Junior Non-Commissioned Corrections Officer
- CO1 Phoebe A Sabadisto – Model Junior Non-Commissioned Corrections Officer
- Ms. Eriekris A. Mortil – Model Civillian Personnel (2nd Level)
- Mr. Manuel L. Sescar Jr. – Model Civillian Personnel (2nd Level)
- Ms. Christine Joy S. Viloria – Model Civilian (1st Level)
In addition to individual recognitions, the Directorate for Health and Welfare Services, led by CT/CSUPT MA CECILIA V VILLANUEVA, OIC-Deputy Director General for Reformation, Director for Directorate for Health and Welfare Services, was lauded as the best-performing office, and the Correctional Institution for Women, led by CT/SUPT MARJORIE ANN P SANIDAD, Acting Superintendent, was also honored as the best Operating Prison and Penal Farm.
Following the Awarding Ceremony, seven (7) stakeholders were also recognized for their support and dedication to the Bureau. These stakeholders include:
- Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation Phil., Inc.
- University of Perpetual Help System Dalta – Las Piñas
- TV5 Alagang Kapatid
- Dr. Clarke Jones – Reshape Justice Group
- International Committee of the Red Cross
- Philippine College of Criminology
- San Miguel Corporation
Under the leadership of DG CATAPANG JR., the Bureau has implemented a series of strategic reforms aimed at improving operational efficiency, enhancing the welfare of both personnel and Persons Deprived of Liberty, and strengthening security protocols across all facilities.
The BuCor’s 119th Founding Anniversary serves as a reminder of its enduring legacy in the country’s criminal justice system.
