BJMP Supports Integration with BuCor to Streamline Correctional Systems
MANILA, Philippines—The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has expressed strong support for the plans to integrate its operations with the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), highlighting the potential to streamline correctional systems and policies across the country.
BJMP spokesperson Chief Inspector Jayrex Bustinera explained that talks are ongoing between the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), which oversees BJMP, and the Department of Justice (DOJ), which supervises BuCor. Both departments are headed by brothers Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Justice Secretary Boying Remulla.
“It’s still a work in progress,” Bustinera said. “If the merger or the unification of these two agencies happens, it will make uniform systems and policies.” The keyphrase BJMP backs integration with BuCor reflects the agency’s readiness to unify efforts for a more cohesive approach to corrections.
Unified Efforts Toward Restorative Justice
Bustinera emphasized that merging the two agencies would unify their approach, especially in advancing restorative justice. This concept views crime not only as a breach of law but also as harm done to relationships involving victims, offenders, and the community.
“Right now, I can’t speak for BuCor, but I believe if we come up with restorative justice policies … if we are together, it will be streamlined. There will only be one imprisonment system followed,” he remarked.
Such integration would also allow both BJMP and BuCor to share resources more efficiently. Bustinera noted BJMP’s extensive network of 484 jails and 27,000 personnel nationwide, which could complement BuCor’s capacities.
Benefits of Integration for Both Agencies
“[It works] both ways. The BJMP can benefit from the resources of the BuCor … and the BuCor can benefit from the resources of the BJMP,” Bustinera said. This mutual support would strengthen correctional management across the board.
The plan aligns with the government’s vision for a unified penology and corrections system, as outlined in the Philippine Development Plan for 2023 to 2028. The goal is to improve the efficiency and fairness of the country’s penal system.
Shared Goals and Protecting Unique Competencies
The integration was discussed during a press conference on restorative justice organized by Climate Conflict Action. UP professor Pancho Lara, the group’s chair, urged the administration to base the unification on shared values such as distributive and restorative justice.
“I would tell the President to unite them in terms of the orientation towards distributive and restorative justice so they both have that same orientation,” Lara said.
He also stressed the importance of preserving the unique strengths of each agency. “That’s our only concern is the distinctive competencies of the two units—that it’s not just in the topic of cost-cutting … They have particular competencies that we hope will be protected and can be respected,” Lara added.
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