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Prison reform on the table: BuCor hosts ASEAN conference in palawan
The bureau of Corrections (BuCor) is hosting the 2nd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) in Puerto Princesa,Palawan this weekend. This event marks the first international correctional conference too be held in the contry.
LIVe: Opening Ceremony of the 2nd ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC)
The Philippines, through the Bureau of corrections (BuCor) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), host the 2nd ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) in Puerto Princesa, Palawan from February 14 to 17, 2025, marking the first international correctional conference to be held in the country.
BuCor, BJMP host ASEAN correctional conference on Feb. 14 to 17
The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) will host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) on Feb. 14 to 17 in Puerto Princesa City. The conference aims to address various issues in the correctional system, including overcrowding, deteriorating conditions, and harsh treatment that contribute to accelerated aging among prisoners. Souza called for greater transparency in the penal system, urging prison authorities to combat organized crime, reduce illicit arms flows, and enhance the recovery of stolen assets. Simultaneously occurring, the United kingdom, co-sponsor of ARCC 2025, lauded the conference’s role in fostering collaboration among ASEAN correctional officials. UK Deputy Head of Mission to Bangkok David Thomas underscored the need for prison officials in ASEAN to learn from each other to help improve correctional services across the region. “Once again, the UK sees this as a really important area to be working and we’re proud to be sponsoring this conference,” he said. He also reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law and good governance in ASEAN through its five-year action plan as a dialog partner. “The UK is now on its fourth year as a dialogue partner to ASEAN and in our first five-year plan of action, we made clear our intention to support ASEAN in its work to strengthen the rule of law and improve good governance,” he added.
Asean Correctional Efforts Get Spotlight at Philippine Conference
The Philippines is hosting the 2nd ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) this week, marking the first international correctional conference to be held in the country.we’re speaking today with Dr. Maria Santos, a renowned expert in correctional rehabilitation, to discuss the conference’s goals adn the role of international cooperation in improving correctional systems across the ASEAN region.
Senior Editor: Dr. Santos, thank you for joining us today. Could you tell us about the importance of holding the ARCC in the Philippines?
Dr. Maria Santos: It’s a true honor to be here. This conference is incredibly significant because it showcases the Philippines’ commitment to reform and its recognition of the need for collaboration on critical issues facing correctional systems throughout ASEAN. Holding it here opens dialog and fosters knowledge sharing on a regional level.
Senior Editor: The conference aims to address a number of complex challenges facing correctional facilities in the ASEAN region. What are some of the most pressing issues being discussed?
Dr. Santos: Overcrowding, deteriorating conditions within facilities, and the often harsh treatment of inmates are major concerns. These issues contribute to a cycle of violence and further marginalization, hindering rehabilitation efforts.The conference aims to develop strategies to address these issues through improved infrastructure, staff training, and a focus on rehabilitative programs that prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society.
Senior Editor: International collaboration plays a key role in addressing these challenges. What are some examples of this collaboration in action at the ARCC?
Dr. Santos: The United Kingdom, a co-sponsor of the conference, is a prominent example. Their commitment to supporting ASEAN in strengthening the rule of law and good governance is evident in their active participation and sponsorship. The UK is sharing its expertise in areas like inmate rehabilitation and developing programs that focus on reducing recidivism rates. This exchange of knowledge and best practices is invaluable for all participating countries.
Senior Editor: What are your hopes for the outcomes of this conference?
dr. Santos: My hope is that the ARCC will act as a catalyst for meaningful change across ASEAN. I envision concrete action plans emerging from the discussions, with a tangible commitment to improve correctional systems and ultimately create a safer and more just region for everyone.
The ARCC serves as a powerful reminder that addressing complex challenges like those faced by correctional systems requires a collaborative approach. Through open dialogue, knowledge sharing, and a commitment to reform, we can work together to create a more humane and effective correctional system across ASEAN.