The Bureau of Corrections has transferred a significant number of inmates from the New Bilibid Prison to prison and penal farms nationwide since 2022 as part of efforts to decongest the country's biggest correctional facility and prepare for its eventual closure.
According to recent data, a total of 16,530 inmates have been relocated, with the latest batch of 200 inmates arriving at the San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm in Zamboanga City on Tuesday.
BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang, Jr. stated that the inmate population is being distributed more evenly among other operating prison and penal farms nationwide to promote safe and humane detention environments that support correctional goals.
NBP Chief Superintendent Gary A. Garcia reported that BuCor has relocated 1,909 inmates this year, representing about 27% of its target to transfer 7,000 prisoners in 2026.
The Bureau of Corrections continues to coordinate with government agencies and local government units to ensure the smooth implementation of the inmate transfer program.
