The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) formally welcomed a high-level delegation composed of United States Congressional staff and representatives from the United Nations Foundation (UNF), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the United Nations Information Center (UNIC) during an official visit to the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) on 19 June 2025.
The visit was organized to showcase the Bureau’s ongoing reform efforts, highlight its partnership with the UNODC, and engage in dialogue on the challenges facing the Philippine correctional system. The engagement also provided an opportunity for the international delegation to explore future avenues for technical support and collaboration in strengthening institutional reforms.
The delegation was received by USEC DEO MARCO of the Department of Justice (DOJ) alongside BuCor key officials, led by Director General, GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR., AFP (Ret.), CESE, CCLH.
During the session, the UNODC presented its ongoing programs with BuCor, which include a unified approach to custodial deaths, introduction of a newly developed Violent Extremist Offender (VEO) risk assessment tool, initiatives to reduce prison congestion, support for accommodating Islamic religious practices in correctional facilities, and the broader development of prison infrastructure.
Following the discussion, the delegation proceeded to the NBP Maximum Security Compound for a guided site visit. They were given an overview of the medical facilities through a tour of the NBP Hospital, observed kitchen operations in the main food preparation area, and visited one of the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) dormitories to gain a clearer understanding of daily living conditions within the prison. This visit provided context to the reform measures in place and allowed the delegates to appreciate both the progress achieved and the continuing challenges in facility management and welfare of PDLs.
The visit concluded with mutual expressions of support and interest in sustained cooperation. It highlights the Bureau’s evolving role in the international correctional landscape, anchored in transparency, accountability, and a shared pursuit of more just and humane correctional systems.
