DOJ-Congress body to probe prison mess

MANILA, Philippines–A joint executive-legislative committee has been formed to speed up the reforms and modernization of the country’s national penitentiary system and facilities amid rising concerns that criminal elements have become deeply entrenched in the New Bilibid Prison (NBP).

Ilocos Norte Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas, vice chair of the House justice committee, on Tuesday said he has been appointed to chair the body which would work with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to expedite the implementation of the Bureau of Corrections Act which was approved two years ago.

“The problem of criminal activities within the NBP is deeply rooted but the DOJ and BuCor under Secretary Leila de Lima and Director Franklin Bucayu are doing everything within their means to address it,” said Fariñas in a text message.

According to Fariñas, although the Reform Act has been passed, it has not been funded. He said the committee he heads will work out the funding with the Department of Budget and Management, particularly for the new prison facility to replace the NBP that is being planned to be built in Laur, Nueva Ecija. He said the committee as been given 30 days to submit its report to its mother committee, the committee on justice.