The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), under the leadership of DIRECTOR GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR., AFP (Ret.), CESE, CCLH, held a consultative meeting with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), led by its Chairperson, DR. MARIE GRACE T. PASCUA, CESO III on 20 June 2025 to explore potential collaboration on land development projects that aim to contribute to national food security and economic sustainability.
The dialogue centered on the Bureau’s proactive efforts to identify land resources that can be developed for agricultural and livelihood projects. These projects are envisioned to harness the skills of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) through structured work programs, turning idle lands into productive assets.
DIRECTOR GENERAL CATAPANG JR. shared BuCor’s plan of aligning its development plans with broader national goals. “We are actively seeking partnerships with agencies like the NCIP to support our commitment to food production, economic contribution, and reformation of our PDLs,” he said. Through sustainable agriculture and land development, BuCor can be a strategic player in enhancing food security while also contributing to the productive reintegration of our PDLs.
CHAIRPERSON PASCUA responded positively, noting that the NCIP is open to collaborative opportunities contributing to the country’s socio-economic development.
The issue of land conflicts between Ancestral Domains and government lands was also acknowledged during the meeting. To address this, both agencies agreed on the need for continuous dialogue and resolved to establish a Technical Working Group (TWG). This body will be tasked with reviewing existing land claims, identifying areas of conflict, and proposing joint solutions aligned with legal mandates and cultural sensitivity.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to pursue the next steps through institutional coordination, guided by transparency, respect for cultural heritage, and a shared vision for nation-building.
