Halfway Houses for Women Inmates Announced at CIW
MANILA, Philippines — Plans to establish halfway houses for women inmates who have no place to go after their release were unveiled during a medical mission at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong on July 11, 2025. This initiative aims to support reintegration and reduce recidivism among persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. and Department of Justice Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez, who both chose to celebrate their birthdays with the CIW PDLs, led the event. They kicked off the day with a Mass and personally checked on the inmates’ well-being, sharing their vision for halfway houses to assist women inmates after release.
“Once you are released and have nowhere to go, Usec. Marge and I have already talked and we are planning to establish halfway houses for you. There, we will offer upskilling and vocational courses so it will be easier for you to find a livelihood,” Catapang said during the mission.
Addressing Stigma and Providing New Opportunities
Undersecretary Gutierrez emphasized the urgent need for halfway houses, noting the current lack of such facilities in the country. She expressed hope that at least one halfway house will be operational before the end of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term to aid PDLs’ smooth transition back into society.
“The problem is, after being released, most of them face the stigma of being untrustworthy because they have criminal records. But we want to change that by providing a halfway house where they can start over and have a new lease on life. How? We want to establish a program where they can stay for a few months, and from there, begin looking for a job. Because most of the persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who are released really have nowhere to live, which is why they end up returning to the wrong path,” she explained.
Comprehensive Medical Support Provided
During the mission, over 400 women inmates at CIW received medical and personal care services through partnerships with private organizations. In collaboration with 1Life Philippines, inmates underwent diagnostic exams including ECGs, ultrasounds, and x-rays. They also consulted with doctors both face-to-face and online and received free medications.
Reseta Pharmacy’s co-founder, Dr. KC Halili, held an educational seminar focused on breast cancer and tumors. Meanwhile, OK Cares, a non-profit organization, donated canned goods and sanitary napkins to over 500 women inmates.
Community Groups Bring Hope and Support
The Kababaihan Partylist, led by first nominee Kate Coseteng, distributed vitamin-infused coffee from Beautéderm and pledged ongoing assistance. “We see you. We feel you. And we are here for you,” Coseteng told the inmates.
Additionally, Katinko donated balms to help treat skin infections common among PDLs, further enhancing their health and comfort.
Unity in Care Inspires Hope
Gutierrez expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support shown during the mission. “It’s overwhelming — in the best way — to see so many people come together for our women PDLs. This kind of support gives them hope, and for me, that’s the best birthday gift I could ask for,” she said.
This coordinated effort signals a significant step toward changing the lives of women inmates in the Philippines by providing them with opportunities to rebuild and reintegrate with dignity.
For more news and updates on halfway houses for women inmates, visit Filipinokami.com.
