The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) will jointly host the 2nd ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) from February 14 to 17, 2025, in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. This marks the first international correctional conference to be held in the Philippines.
With the theme “Weaving the ASEAN Regional Corrections Identity: Co-Creating a Shared Vision of Transformation,” the ARCC will bring together prison service leaders from Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, Timor-Leste, and the Philippines, alongside international organizations and correctional experts.
Key discussions will focus on:
- Strengthening regional cooperation in corrections
- Transforming prison systems to address evolving global challenges
- Identifying root causes of correctional issues and developing joint solutions
- Advancing rehabilitation, security, and alternative sentencing methods
- Utilizing digital innovations for the management and profiling of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL)
- Positioning ASEAN as a global reference for modern correctional practices
The conference will also highlight best practices in decongestion measures, prison health, aftercare and reintegration programs, parole and probation, and efforts to prevent and counter violent extremism.
BJMP Chief Jail Director Ruel Rivera emphasized the significance of this event, stating:
“Guided by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for Bagong Pilipinas, we are steadfast in our commitment to building a secure, just, and humane society. We are confident that the ARCC will further strengthen cooperation among ASEAN nations to enhance safekeeping, rehabilitation, and reintegration efforts for PDLs.”
This landmark event builds upon the discussions and programs initiated during the 1st ARCC, held at the Malaysian Correctional Academy (MCA) in Langkawi, Kedah, from January 21 to 23, 2024.