CHAPTER 6

PRISON
"Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while
you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may
hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the truth, you will not
get out until you have paid the last penny."
Matthew 5: 25-26

EVOLUTION OF PRISON SYSTEM

The history of the birth of prisons is unclear and open to debate. We know that the
origins of the word prison come from Latin carcer meaning literally "to seize." A prison also
came from Old French prisoun, meaning "a place in which people are physically confined and,
usually, deprived of a range of personal freedoms.
In ancient times, the purpose of prison was different than in modern times. Since the
late 1500s, prisoners were incarcerated for relatively short periods of time while they awaited
draconian physical punishments or execution. History tells us that in 621 BCE, a Greek
magistrate and politician named Draco (hence the term draconian) was known for his law
setting that included the extensive use of the death sentence and other harsh punishment like
starvation, poisoning, death by exposure, and banishment. But notably absent in the historical
records is the frequent use of long term incarceration. (Dammer and Albanese 199)
About a large springwater cistern that was constructed in Rome around the same time
as Draco, but later (in 64 BCE) was used a vast primitive prison and called Mamertine Prison.
But again, only high-profile and military prisoners were kept only until they could be paraded in
public prior to so gruesome death. Roman law at that time did not recognize imprisonment
itself as punishment. During the reign of Constantine I (306-337 CE), it is believed that the
Christian Church began the custom of sanctuary for penitence and that eventually led to a form
of imprisonment and the formation of monasteries (Dammer and Albanese 200).
Prisons are correctional facilities for longer-term incarceration, primarily of felony
offenders, administered by the Bureau of Corrections under the Department of Justice. A prison
differs from most jails in that they hold convicted offenders sentenced to more than three
years of imprisonment. Prisons are also funded by the national government, as opposed to the
local funding of most jails. Prisons are like miniature cities, providing all the programs and
services necessary for the long-term inmate population housed within. Corrections
professionals in these institutions face many challenges, for they bear the burden of supervising
an increasing influx of inmates, often without a corresponding increase in funds, facilities, or
other resources. It is settled that a correctional system has no control over the number of
offenders it receives and the number it can release. It is like a hotel that must find room for all
who come but that can evict no one.
A prison system is the organizational arrangement of the provision and operation of
prisons, depending on their nature, and may invoke a corrections system.
CONCEPT OF PENAL COLONY
Colony, as used in politics and history, is a territory under the immediate political
control of a state. The word colony comes from the Latin word colönia. This in turn derives from
the word colönus, which means colonist but also implies a farmer. Cologne is an example of a
settlement preserving this etymology. A colony is mostly ruled by another state or can be run
independently. Unlike a puppet state or satellite state, a colony has no independent
international representation, and its top-level administration is under direct control of the
metropolitan state.
Penal colony is a settlement used to exile prisoners and separate them from the general
populace by placing them in a remote location, often an island or distant colonial territory.
Although the term can be used to refer to a correctional facility located in a remote
location, it is more commonly used to refer to communities of prisoners overseen by wardens
or governors having absolute authority. Historically, penal colonies have often been used for
penal labour in an economically underdeveloped part of a state's (usually colonial) territories,
and on a far larger scale than a prison farm.
A prison farm is a large correctional facility where penal labour convicts are put to
economical use in a "farm" (in the wide sense of a productive unit), usually for manual labour,
largely in open air, such as in agriculture, logging and quarrying. Its historical equivalent on a
very large scale was called a penal colony. The agricultural goods produced by prison farms are
generally used primarily to feed the prisoners themselves and other wards of the State
(residents of orphanages, asylums, etc.), and secondarily, to be sold for whatever profit the
State may be able to obtain.
Open Penal and Correctional Institutions
The First United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of
Offenders, held in Geneva in 1955 defined by characterization an open penal and correctional
institution, thus:
"An open institution is characterized by the absence of material or physical precautions
against escape (such as walls, locks, bars, armed, or other special security guards), and by a
system based on self-discipline and the inmate's sense of responsibility toward the group in
which he lives. This system encourages the inmate to use the freedom accorded to him without
abusing it. It is these characteristics which distinguish the open institution from other types of
institution, some of which are run on the principles without, however, realizing them to the
full."
The primary purpose of setting up an open penal institution, which is to rehabilitate
offenders in an atmosphere as similar as possible to that of free society based on trust and self-
respect, underlines its chief characteristics that differentiate it from other types of institution.
By definition, an open institution is characterized by the following:
1. It is a place of confinement in which security against escape is not provided by any
physical means, such as walls, locks, bars, or guards. The prisoners are trusted to obey
the rules of discipline without close and constant supervision by the officers. It is
managed with minimum security measures.
2. Its system is based on self-discipline and the prisoner's sense of responsibility toward
the group in which he lives. The regime, in other words, is founded on training in self-
and group-responsibility, which encourages the inmate to use the freedom granted him
without abusing it.
3. The open system, however, does not remove all the restrictions on the prisoner's liberty
and does not contravene the punitive function of penalty.

The open system of treating the offenders is handicapped (disadvantaged), however, by the
following:
1. The risks of escape by inmates due to the absence of physical constraint are greater
than in the closed system; and
2. The danger that the inmate may abuse his semi-liberty in his dealings with those outside
the institution is greater than in the closed system.
EVOLUTION OF PRISON SYSTEM IN THE PHILIPPINES
During the pre-colonial times, the informal prison system was community-based, as
there were no national penitentiaries to speak of. Natives who defied or violated the local laws
were meted appropriate penalties by the local chieftains. Incarceration in the community was
only meant to prevent the culprit from further harming the local residents. The formal prison
system in the Philippines started only during the Spanish regime, where an organized corrective
service was made operational. Established in 1847 pursuant to Section 1708 of the Revised
Administrative Code and formally opened by Royal Decree in 1865, the Old Bilibid Prison was
constructed as the main penitentiary on Oroquieta Street, Manila and designed to house the
prison population of the country. This prison became known as the "Carcel y Presidio
Correccional" and could accommodate 1,127 prisoners.
The Old Bilibid Prison, then known as Carcel y Presidio Correccional (Spanish,
"Correctional Jail and Military Prison") occupied a rectangular piece of land which was part of
the Mayhalique Estate in the heart of Manila. The old prison was established on June 25, 1865
under a Spanish royal decree and had a capacity of 1,127 prisoners. It is divided into two
sections the Carcel Section, which could accommodate 600 inmates, and the Presidio, which
could accommodate 527 prisoners. In 1908, a concrete modern hospital with a capacity of 200
beds, as well as new dormitories for the prisoners was added.
In November 1, 1905, Reorganization Act 1407 was passed into law mandating the
Philippine Commission to create the Bureau of Prisons under the Department of Commerce
and Police. Later, jurisdiction was assigned to the Department of Public Instruction, the
predecessor of the Department of Education. Finally it nestled under the wings of the
Department of Justice to which it belongs till the present time.
Under Executive Order No. 292 known as the Administrative Code of 1987, the
Executive Branch of Government shall create a Department of Justice to provide the
government with a principal law agency which shall be both its legal counsel and prosecution
law agency; administer the criminal justice system in accordance with the accepted process
thereof consisting in the investigation of the crimes, prosecution of offenders and
administration of the correctional system. Under the same EO 292, Book IV, Title III, Chapter 8,
Sec. 26 is the creation of Bureau of Corrections, which shall have its principal task the
rehabilitation of prisoner. The Bureau of Corrections shall exercise such powers and functions
as are now provided for the Bureau of Prisons or may hereafter be provided by law.
The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor)
The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) was organized and has been operating under the
Prison Act of 1917. The BuCor is an integral bureau of the DOJ mandated to carry out the
institutional rehabilitation programs of the government for national offenders, or those who
are sentenced to more than 3 years of imprisonment, and to ensure their safe custody. BuCor
oversees the operations of seven (7) prisons located in different parts of the country.
On May 24, 2013, President Benigno S. Aquino III signed into law Republic Act No.
10575, otherwise known as "The Bureau of Corrections Act of 2013". The law mainly seeks to
provide for the modernization, professionalization and restructuring of the BuCor by upgrading
its facilities, increasing the number of its personnel, upgrading the level of qualifications of their
personnel and standardizing their base pay, retirement and other benefits. The new law
mandates BuCor to implement rationalized system of promotion and performance evaluation
system in coordination with the Civil Service Commission.
The Department of Justice (DOJ), having the BuCor as a line bureau and a constituent
unit, shall maintain a relationship of administrative supervision with the latter as defined under
Section 38(2), Chapter 7, Book IV of Executive Order No. 292 (Administrative Code of 1987),
except that the DOJ shall retain authority over the power to review, reverse, revise or modify
the decisions of the BuCor in the exercise of its regulatory or quasi- judicial functions. (Sec. 8,
RA 10575)
 The BuCor shall be headed by a Director who shall be assisted by three (3) Deputy
Directors: one (1) for administration, one (1) for security and operations and one (1) for
reformation, all of whom shall be appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the
Secretary of the DOJ: Provided, That the Director and the Deputy Directors of the BuCor shall
serve a tour of duty not to exceed six (6) years from the date of appointment: Provided, further,
That in times of war or other national emergency declared by Congress, the President may
extend such tour of duty. (Sec. 9, RA 10575)
The Mission, Functions and Mandates of the BuCor
Mission:
To maximize the assets' value of the BuCor to effectively pursue its responsibility in
safely securing transforming national prisoners through responsive rehabilitation programs
managed by professional Correctional Officers.
Functions of BuCor:
1. To confine prisoners by giving them adequate living spaces as the first conditions to be
met before any effective rehabilitation programs can be undertaken.
2. To prevent prisoners from committing crimes while in custody.
3. To provide humane treatment by affording them human basic needs in the prison
environment and prohibiting cruel methods and provide a variety of rehabilitation
program.
Mandates of the Bureau of Corrections (Sec. 4, RA 10575)
The BuCor shall be in charge of safekeeping and instituting reformation programs to
national inmates sentenced to more than three (3) years.
1. Safekeeping of National Inmates - The safekeeping of inmates shall include decent
provision of quarters, food, water and clothing in compliance with established United
Nations standards. The security of the inmates shall be undertaken by the Custodial Force
consisting of Corrections Officers with a ranking system and salary grades similar to its
counterpart in the BJMP.
Safekeeping, which is the custodial component of the BuCor's present corrections
system, shall refer to the act that ensures the public (including families of inmates and their
victims) that national inmates are provided with their basic needs, completely incapacitated
from further committing criminal acts, and have been totally cut off from their criminal
networks (or contacts in the free society) while serving sentence inside the premises of the
national penitentiary. This act also includes protection against illegal organized armed groups
which have the capacity of launching an attack on any prison camp of the national penitentiary
to rescue their convicted comrade or to forcibly amass firearms issued to prison guards. (Sec. 3,
RA 10575)
2. Reformation of National Inmates- The reformation programs, which will be instituted by
the BuCor for the inmates, shall be the following:
a. Moral and Spiritual Program;
b. Education and Training Program;
C. Work and Livelihood Program;
d. Sports and Recreation Program;
e. Health and Welfare Program; and
f. Behaviour Modification Program, to include Therapeutic Community.
Reformation, which is the rehabilitation component of the BuCor's present
corrections system, shall refer to the acts which ensure the public (including families of inmates
and their victims) that released national inmates are no longer harmful to the community by
becoming reformed individuals prepared to live a normal and productive life upon reintegration
to the mainstream society. (Sec. 3, RA 10575)
Facilities of the Bureau of Corrections
The BuCor shall operate with standard and uniform design of prison facilities,
reformation facilities and administrative facilities, through all the operating prison and penal
farms, such as the following:
1. Dormitory;
2. Administration building;
3. Perimeter/Security fences;
4. Hospital/Infirmary;
5. Recreation/Multipurpose hall;
6. Training/Lecture centre;
7. Workshop facility;
8. Mess hall/kitchen;
9. Visiting area;
10. Water tank and pump;
11. Reception and diagnostic centre; and
12. Service personnel facilities.
Qualification Standards in the Appointment of the BuCor Personnel
No person shall be appointed as personnel of the BuCor unless one possesses the
following minimum qualifications:
1. A citizen of the Republic of the Philippines;
2. A person of good moral character;
3. Must have passed the psychiatric/psychological, drug and physical test for the purpose
of determining his/her physical and mental health;
4. Must possess a baccalaureate degree from a recognized learning institution;
5. Must possess the appropriate civil service eligibility;
6. Must not have been dishonourably discharged or dismissed for cause from previous
employment
7. Must not have been convicted by final judgment of an offense or crime involving moral
turpitude; and
8. Must be at least one meter and sixty-two centimetres (1.62 m.) in height for male, and
one meter and fifty- seven centimetres (1.57 m.) for female: Provided, That a waiver for
height and age requirement/s may be granted to applicants belonging to the cultural
communities: Provided, further, That a new applicant must not be less than twenty-one
(21) or more than forty (40) years of age. Except for this particular provision, the above-
enumerated qualifications shall be continuing character and an absence of any one of
them at any given time shall be ground for separation or retirement from the service:
Provided, furthermore, That those who are already in the service upon the effectivity of
this Act shall be given five (5) years from the date of such effectivity to obtain the
minimum educational qualification and eligibility with subsidiary assistance as provided
for in this Act. (Sec. 11, RA 10575)
Organizational Structure of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor)
A. Key Positions
1. Undersecretary- the Head of the BuCor, shall have the position and title of Director
General of Corrections.
2. Assistant Secretary the second officers in command of the BuCor, shall have the
position and title of Deputy Directors of Corrections.
3. Chief Superintendent - The third officer in command of the BuCor, shall have the
position and title of Corrections Chief Superintendent.
4. Senior Superintendent- The fourth officer in command of the BuCor, shall have the
position and title of Corrections Senior Superintendent.
5. Superintendent - The fifth officer in command of the BuCor, shall have the position
and title of Corrections Superintendent. (Sec. 9(b) RA 10575)

B. Directorates- the BuCor shall operate with a directorial structure, to wit:

 1. Directorate for Reception and Diagnostics (DRD) – It shall undertake reception of
inmates. The DRD shall be responsible for the conduct of classification of each and
every inmate admitted to the BuCor.
2. Security and Operations Directorates - Provide basic needs and security of inmates.
3. Reformation Directorates- Administer reformation programs.
4. Directorate for External Relations (DER) – prepare inmates for reintegration to
mainstream society. DER shall be responsible for pre-release and post-release
programs of inmates due for release. The DER shall also classify inmates according to
skills acquired for referral and endorsement to appropriate companies or
corporations participating in the BuCor On-The-Job Training Programs for newly
reformed inmates. The DER shall also evaluate, classify and apply necessary
programs to inmates for readiness to join the mainstream society upon release.
5. Administrative Directorates- Responsible For administrative matters. (Sec. 5, RA
10575)
C. Prisons- the BuCor oversees the operations of seven (7) prisons, to wit:
1. New Bilibid Prison (NBP), Muntinlupa City
2. Correctional Institution for Women, Mandaluyong City
3. Leyte Regional Prison, Abuyog Leyte
4. Davao Prison and Penal Farm, Panabo, Davao de Norte
5. Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm, Zablayan, Mindoro Occidental
6. San Ramon and Penal Farm, Zamboanga City
7. Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
D. The Custodial Force and Reformation Personnel – shall be in charge for the security and the
implementation of the recommended inmate reformation program of each and every inmate
while serving sentence, respectively.
The reformation programs shall be undertaken by Professional Reformation Personnel
consisting of Corrections Technical Officers. Corrections Technical Officers are personnel
employed in the implementation of reformation programs and those personnel whose nature
of work requires proximate or direct contact with inmates.
Corrections Technical Officers include priests, evangelists, pastors, teachers, instructors,
professors, vocational placement officers, librarians, guidance counsellors, physicians, nurses,
medical technologists, pharmacists, dentists, therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists,
sociologists, social workers, engineers, electricians, agriculturists, veterinarians, lawyers and
similar professional skills relevant to the implementation of inmate reformation programs. (Sec.
4, RA 10575)

Rank Classification of the Custodial Personnel:

 1. Corrections Chief Superintendent
2. Corrections Senior Superintendent
3. Corrections Superintendent
4. Corrections Chief Inspector
5. Corrections Senior Inspector
6. Corrections Inspector
7. Corrections Senior Officer IV
8. Corrections Senior Officer
9. Corrections Senior Officer II
10. Corrections Senior Officer I
11. Corrections Officer III
12. Corrections Officer II
13. Corrections Officer I

Corrections Technical Officers Rank:

1. Corrections Technical Senior Superintendent
2. Corrections Technical Superintendent
3. Corrections Technical Chief Inspector
4. Corrections Technical Senior Inspector
5. Corrections Technical Inspector
6. Corrections Technical Senior Officer IV
7. Corrections Technical Senior Officer III
8. Corrections Technical Senior Officer II
9. Corrections Technical Senior Officer I
10. Corrections Technical Officer III
11. Corrections Technical Officer II
12. Corrections Technical Officer I
PENAL INSTITUTION
Under the new law, RA 10575 known as "The Bureau of Corrections Act of 2013", the
BuCor may propose additional penal farms as may be necessary as possible, aside from its
existing seven (7) prison and penal farms to decongest existing penal institutions and
accommodate the increasing number of inmates committed to the agency. The prison and
penal farms as well as sub-colonies are under the supervision of the Sub- Colony Supervisor,
Colony Assistant Superintendent, and Colony Superintendent.
The Seven Penal Institution of the Bureau of Corrections
1. New Bilibid Prison (NBP) - Due to increasing crime, the Philippine Government
enacted Commonwealth Act No. 67 and anew prison was built in Muntinlupa on 551 hectares
of land at an area considered at that time to be "remote". On November 15, 1940, all the
prisoners, equipment and facilities of the Old Bilibid Prison in Manila were transferred to the
new site. The new institution had a capacity of 3,000 prisoners and it was officially named the
New Bilibid Prison (NBP) on January 22, 1941. The prison reservation has an area of 587
hectares, part of which was arable. The prison compound proper had an area of 300 x 300
meters or a total of nine hectares. It was surrounded by three layers of barbed wire. The
remnants of the old facility was used by the City of Manila as its detention Center then known
as Manila City Jail.
The NBP in Muntinlupa City, Philippines, is the main insular penitentiary
designed to house the prison population of the Philippines. NBP is the central office, from
where the seat of administration and organizational power emanates. As a matter of course,
NBP is a regular prison housing 60% of the country's insular prisoners. The NBP houses the
following Camps-the Maximum Security, the Medium Security and the Minimum Security
Camps. NBP offers various work and livelihood programs, education thru formal, non-formal
and vocational to inmates at these camps.
2. Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) - On November 27, 1929, after a series of
negotiations started by Prison Director Ramon Victorio (he was director from 1924 to 1930), the
Philippine Legislature passed Republic Act No. 3579 into law establishing the CIW. On February
14, 1931, the women prisoners were transferred from the Old Bilibid Prison to a building in
Welfareville Compound, Nueve de Pebrero, Mandaluyong City. This penal institution for women
was constructed on an 18-hectare piece of land in Mandaluyong City. In 1934, the position of
female superintendent was created to superintend the operations of this penal facility. Today,
the institution is run entirely by female personnel with the exception of the perimeter guards
who are male.
Its old name, "Women's Prison," was changed to "Correctional Institution for Women."
This was in keeping with emerging trends in penology, which emphasized correction rather
than punishment. Convicts were brought back into the social mainstream adjusted and
rehabilitated with a better outlook in life. The Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) is the
only prison for women offenders. The CIW, manned mostly by female correctional officers,
provides various activities to inmates, such as cultural development or social activities, sports,
religious, vocational to include paper craft making, fish culture and piggery. Education is offered
to include P.E., reflexology classes, aside from the basic health, medical and dental services
regularly administered to inmates.
3. Davao Prison and Penal Farm (DPPF) - The Davao Penal Colony now known as the
Davao Prison and Penal Farm was the first penal settlement founded and organized under
Filipino administration. The settlement, which originally had an area of approximately 30,000
hectares in the districts of Panabo and Tagum, Davao del Norte, was formally established on
January 21, 1932 by virtue of Act No. 3732. (Laurel Report on Penal Reforms [1969], p. 39)
At the outbreak of the Second World War, the colony was converted into a
concentration camp where more than 1, 000 Japanese internees were committed by the
Philippine- American Armed Forces. At the Colony, the Japanese were treated in accordance
with the instructions given by the American commanding officer. On December 20, 1941, the
Japanese imperial forces attacked Davao and the colony was among the establishments taken
over by the invaders. The entire settlement was thrown into confusion and great numbers of
prisoners escaped to the hills. Normal operations were inevitably disturbed. After the colony
was turned over to the Japanese authorities, the remaining colony employees, their families
and the inmates evacuated to Iwahig where they organized the Davao Penal Colony at
Inagawan (Palawan). After the liberation of the Philippines, the colony-in-exile at Palawan
returned to its old site in Davao. (Laurel Report on Penal Reforms |1969], p. 41)
The colony is subdivided into three sub-colonies: the Panabo Sub-colony, the Kapalong
Sub-colony and the Abaca Decorticating Plant. The Abaca Decorticating Plant takes charge of
the production of abaca, which is the main industry of the colony. Davao has also a settlement
site the Tanglaw Settlement for released prisoners who no longer wish to return to their homes
but choose to remain in Davao as homesteaders.
4. Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (PPF) - The Iuhit Penal Settlement now known as
Iwalhig Prison and Penal Farm, the largest operating institution under the BuCor, was
established on November 16, 1904 in Puerto Princesa City, province of Palawan by the
Americans in a 28,072 hectares of land on the order of Governor Forbes, then the incumbent
Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Police (which later became the department of
Public instruction). The establishment of this penal facility was made on the suggestion of
Governor Luke E. Wright who felt the need for an institution designed for incorrigible offenders
and made as depository for the prisoners who could not be accommodated at the Bilibid Prison.
The institution had for its first Superintendent Lt. George Wolfe, a member of the U.S
expeditionary force, who later became the first prisons director. The settlement was at first
beset by outbreaks and attempted escapes on the part of the prisoners. But under the
supervision of Col. John White of the Philippine Constabulary who became superintendent in
1906, the colony became a successful settlement. Through the Department's efforts, the
Philippine Commission passed Act No. 1723 in 1907, which defined the status of the settlement
as penal institution.
The land areas expanded to 40,000 hectares in the late 1950s and expanded again to
41,007 hectares by Virtue of Executive Order No. 67 issued by Governor Newton Gilbert on
October 15, 1912. Iwahig is subdivided into four zones or districts: Central Sub-Colony where
the headquarters and main buildings of the colony are located and which has an area of 14,700
hectares; Sta. Lucia with 9,685 hectares; Montible with 8,000 hectares and the Inagawan Sub-
Colony with 13,000 hectares. In 1955, Administrative Order No. 20 was promulgated by the
President and approved by the Secretary of Justice and the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural
Resources. This Order sanctions the distribution of colony lands tor Cultivation by deserving
colonists. Recent developments and presidential proclamations have dramatically reduced the
size of the prison reservation of Iwahig. Each sub-colony operates as an autonomous institution
under the management of a penal supervisor.
This Penal Institution is the shinning symbol of the prison system in the Philippines for it
acquired for itself an international recognition as the first and most successful open penal
institution in the world. It was from this facility that the term "prison without walls" had its
beginnings. In the United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and treatment of Offenders,
the Iwahig Penal Colony was acclaimed as the most advanced and unique type of institution in
the world. It was also because of the Iwahig Penal Colony that the Philippines Director of
Prisons was elected Chairman of the Conference on Crime Prevention and Treatment of
Offenders (held in India in 1956). Hence, it is common knowledge that the Iwahig Penal Colony
is not only a national institution but also an international one and because of this, the penal
institution brought honour to the Republic of the Philippines. (Laurel Report on Penal Reforms
[1969], p. 35)
5. Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm- Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm located in
Occidental Mindoro was established on September 27, 1954 under Proclamation Number 72.
The penal colony has a total land area of approximately 16,190 hectares. The first colonists and
employees arrived in Sablayan on January 14, 1955. Since then, several buildings have been
constructed for the use of the colonists and employees. Sablayan prison is a facility where
prisoners from NBP are brought for decongestion purposes. Aside from non-formal education
offered by the penal colony, a work program in agro-industrial production is also being catered
to the inmates. Horticulture is the main line of production, private sectors participation is
encouraged thru joint ventures in rice and corn areas and upland for other cash crops.
6. San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SPPF) - According too historical accounts, the San
Ramon Prison was established in San Ramon, Barangay Talisayan, Zamboanga City on August
21, 1870 through a royal decree promulgated in 1869. Established during the tenure of
Governor General Ramon Blanco, a Spanish captain in the royal army (whose patron saints the
prison was named after) as Colonia Penal de San Ramon, the facility was originally established
for persons convicted of political crimes. It is considered the oldest penal facility in the country
with an aggregate area of 1, 524.6 hectares.
During the Spanish-American War in 1898, the prisoner in San Ramon were hastily
released and the buildings destroyed. In 1907, the American administration re-established the
prison farm. In 1912, Gen. John Pershing chief executive of the Department of Mindanao and
Sulu, classified the institution as a prison and penal colony and therein confined people
sentenced by the courts under his jurisdiction. Under Pershing supervision, several buildings
with a capacity for 600 prisoners were constructed. After several years, the colony became
practically self-supporting with 75,000 coconut trees, which were planted at the beginning of
Pershing's administration, contributing to the colony's self-sufficiency. On January 1, 1915, the
San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm was placed under the Jurisdiction of the Bureau of Prisons.
San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm offers work program education and on-the-job
training programs, sports a Spiritual enhancement programs as part of rehabilitation program
for inmates. The area occupied by the San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm was designated as part
of the Zambo Ecozone and Freeport pursuant to Proclamation No. III and 112 proclaiming the
mountainous area of Upper Bonguiao and Curuan as its relocation site. The Zamboanga City
Economic zone (Zambo Ecozone) created pursuant to R.A. No. 7903 dated July 25, 1994.
7. Leyte Regional Prison (LRP) - The LRP was created on January 16, 1973 under
Proclamation Number 1101 in Abuyog Leyte. LRP'S program of rehabilitation includes Non-
formal education and applied training in building or residential Wiring installation, horticulture,
automotive, carpentry and agro-industry. It has facilities to enhance rehabilitation thru sports
and recreations. Therapeutic Community program is also being undertaken for behaviour
modification.

OTHER NATIONAL PRISONS NO LONGER IN OPERATION

1. Corregidor Prison Stockage - On January 17, 1908, some 100 prisoners were
transferred from the Bilibid Prison to Fort Mills in Corregidor Island to work under the military
authorities. This move was in accordance with an order from the Department of instruction,
which approved the transfer the inmates so that they may assist in the operation and
maintenance of the stockage. Until the outbreak of the Second World War, inmates from the
Bilibid Prison were regularly sent to Corregidor. However, at the beginning of the war, the
prisoners who were stationed in the island were returned to the Bilibid Prison.
The work of the transferee-prisoners included the following: a) Maintenance work in the
stockage and in the hospital; b) Assisting in the various shops in the island; c) Roadwork; d)
Garbage disposal and sanitation; e) Electric railways, f) Building repair and maintenance; and g)
Ordnance work.
 2. Bontoc Prison- Act No. 1876 passed by the Philippine Legislature provided for the
establishment of a prison at Bontoc in the Mountain Province. The prison was created to serve
as a provincial and insular prison for the detention and confinement of provincial prisoners of
the province and of insular prisoners who are members of the non-Christian tribes of Mountain
Province and Nueva Vizcaya. Because of the enormous expenses incurred in the transportation
of personnel, equipment and supplies to the prison however, this prison was abandoned on
April 26, 1932.
3. Fort Bonifacio Prison -Fort Bonifacio, formerly known as Fort W.M. McKinley, is a
military reservation located in Makati, Rizal (now part of Taguig City), which was established
after the Americans came to the Philippines. The prison was originally used as a detention
centre for offenders of US military laws and ordinances.
After the liberation of the Philippines, the reservation was transferred to the Philippine
Government. The government in turn instructed the Bureau of Prisons to use the prison for the
confinement of maximum-security prisoners. For several years, incorrigibles were mixed with
political prisoners (those convicted of rebellion) at the Fort Bonifacio until June 30, 1968, when
it was converted into an exclusive prison for political offenders.
During the administration of President Diosdado Macapagal (1961-65), the fort was
renamed Fort Andress Bonifacio in honor of the great revolutionary hero. The prison was also
renamed Fort Andres Bonifacio Prison. The Fort Bonifacio Prison continued to be a satellite
prison of the national penitentiary even after martial law was lifted. It was only in the late
1980's that the facility was vacated by the Bureau of Prisons. Today, Fort Andres Bonifacio no
longer a prison camp under the Bureau of Correction instead became the National
Headquarters for the Philippine Army and Philippine Marines.

BUREAU OF CORRECTIONS OPERATING PROCEDURE

Admission and confinement of inmates
(Chapter 1, Part II, Book I, BuCor Manual)
Reception and Diagnostic Centre
1. Reception and diagnostic Centre (RDC) - There shall be a reception and diagnostic
centre in every prison which shall receive, study, and classify inmates and detainee
committed to the Bureau. (Sec. 1)
2. Quarantine- Upon admission in the RDC, an inmate shall be placed in quarantine for at
least five days during which he shall be:
 a. Given a physical examination to determine any physical illness or handicap or mental
ailment and to segregate those suspected of having an infectious or contagious
disease. If found sick, the inmate shall immediately confined in the prison hospitals;
b. Oriented with prison rules; and
c. Interviewed by a counsellor, social worker, or other program staff officers. The
interview should be conducted in private. (Sec. 2)
3. Assignment of the Inmate- After the quarantine period the inmate shall remain the
Reception and Diagnostic Centre for a period not exceeding 55 days where he shall
undergo psychiatric, psychological, sociological, vocational, educational and religious
and other examinations. The results of said examinations shall be basis for the inmate’s
individualized treatment program. Thereafter, he shall be assigned to a prison facility as
may be recommended by the Chief of the Reception and Diagnostic Centre. (Sec.3)
4. Inmate Record- The reception and Diagnostic Centre shall keep a complete record of an
inmate which shall include the inmate’s personal circumstances; a brief personal, social
and occupational history; the result of the intake interview; and initial security
classification. (Sec. 4)
ADMISSION OF INMATES
(Chapter 2, Part 11, Book 1, BuCor Manual)
1. Admission- NA inmate shall be admitted in the Reception and Diagnostic Centre of a
prison upon presentation of the following documents:
a. Mittimus/ Commitment order of the court;
b. Information and court decision of the case;
c. Certificate of detention, if any; and
d. Certification that the case of the inmate is not on appeal.
Note: A female inmate shall be received only at the Correctional Institute for Women
(CIW). (Sec.1)
2. Form of Mittimus/ Commitment Order- the mittimus/commitment order shall be under
the signature of the judge and shall bear the seal of the court attested by the clerk of
the court thereof.
3. Registration Book- A prison shall keep a bound registration book wherein all
commitment orders shall be recorded chronologically. The register shall contain the
following entries:
a. Name of the inmate;
 b. Reason for commitment and the authority thereof;
c. Sentence;
d. Date and hour of Admission; and
e. Date and hour of discharge or transfer and basis thereof. (Sec.3)

4. Admission Process- After registration, the inmate shall be photographed, front and side
view, fingerprinted, and shall assigned a permanent prison number. The male inmate
shall then be given a regulation haircut and his beard /mustache, if any, shall be shaven
off. (Sec.4)
5. Hairpieces- An inmate may not wear a wig or artificial hairpiece, unless medical
authorization to do so is approved by the Superintendent. (Sec.5)
6. Place of Admission- the Admission of an inmate shall be made in an area that is
physically separated from the general prison population. (Sec.6)
7. Body Search of an Inmate/Personal Effects- Upon admission, the inmate shall be
searched thoroughly. He shall be allowed to retain in his possession only such articles as
are authorized hereunder. A list of the articles taken from the inmate shall be entered in
the inmate’s record and receipted for by the guard in charge thereof. All articles taken
from the inmate shall be returned to him upon his discharges unless previously disposed
of at the inmate’s request or order condemned by the superintendent after a lapse of
two years.
If the inmate brings in any drug or medicine, the medical officer on duty shall
decide on its disposition. (Sec.7)
8. Confiscation of Contraband- Narcotics and all other prohibited drugs or substance, the
possession and/or use of which are punishable under our laws, all types of weapons,
substances or chemicals that may cause injury to a person, and items or articles which
an inmate is not allowed to possess under prison rules shall be considered contraband
items and confiscated. (Sec. 8)
9. Issuance of Uniforms, etc. – the newly admitted inmate shall be issued two regulation
uniforms/ suit and two t-shirts. Whenever practicable, he shall also be issued the
following items:
a. one (1) blanket;
b. one (1) mat
 c. one (1) pillow with pillow case
d. one (1) mosquito net
e. one (1) set, mess kit; and
f. one (1) pair, slippers.
The inmate shall be held responsible and accountable for the items issued to
him. (Sec. 9)
10. Personal Effects of inmate- In addition to the articles supplied by the prison, the inmate
may bring clothes and other items essential to his well-being, provided the quantity, nature
and dimension thereof will not be interfere with the safety and living conditions of the
other inmates. The Superintendent may allow the inmate to bring in electrical equipment
like television sets, radio cassettes, video players, electric fans and similar items provided
the same is for common use with other inmates. In no case shall an inmate be allowed to
bring in luxurious items such as air conditioners, carpets sofas, beds, sleeping mattresses,
washing machines and the like. (Sec. 10)
11. Wearing of Jewellery- An inmate may not wear jewelry items. He may, however, be allowed
to wear an inexpensive watch. (Sec 11)
CLASSIFICATION OF INMATES
(Chapter 3, Part 11, Book 1, BuCor Manual)
1. Classification Board- Every prison shall have a classification board that shall classify
inmates. The board shall be composed of the following:
Chairman- Superintendent
Vice- chairman- Chief, RDC
Members- Medical officer, Chief, Education Section, Chief, Agro- Industries Section
Secretary- Chief- Overseer (Sec. 1)
2. Classification of inmates as to security Risk- An inmate shall be assigned to any of the
following security groups:
a. Maximum Security Prisoners- This shall include highly dangerous or high-security risk
inmates as determined by the Classification board who require a high degree of control
and supervision. (They are confined at the Maximum Security Prison, NBP Main
Building) and wear tangerine/orange color of uniform.) Under this category are:
i. Those sentence to death;
ii. Those whose minimum sentence is 20 years imprisonment;
 iii. Remand inmates or detainees whose sentence is 20 years and above and those
whose sentence are under review by the Supreme Court of the court of Appeals;
iv. Those with pending cases;
v. Recidivist, habitual delinquents, and escapees;
vi. Those confined in the Reception and Diagnostic centre;
vii. those under disciplinary punishment; and
viii. Those who are criminally insane or those with severe personality or emotional
disorders that make them dangerous to fellow inmates or the prison staff.
b. Medium Security Prisoners- This shall include those who cannot be trusted in less
security areas and those whose conduct behaviour require minimum supervision. (They
occupy the Medium security prison, Camp Sampaguita, and wear blue color of uniform.)
Under this category are:
i. those whose minimum sentence is less than 20 years imprisonment;
ii. remand inmates or detainees whose sentence are below 20 years;
iii. those who are 18 years old and below, regardless of the case and sentence;
iv. Those who have two or more records of escapes. They can be classified as
medium security inmates if they have served eight years since they were
recommitted. Those with one record of escape must serve five years.
v. First offenders sentenced to life imprisonment. They may be classified as
medium security if they have served five years in a maximum security prison or
less, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent. Those who were
detained in a city or provincial jail shall not be entitled to said classification.
c. Minimum security Prisoners- This shall include those who can be reasonably trusted to
serve their sentences under less restricted condition. (They occupy the minimum
security prison, Camp Bukang Liwayway, and wear brown color uniforms.) Under this
category are:
i. Those with severe physical handicap as certified by the chief medical officer of
the prison;
ii. Those who are 65 years old and above, without pending case and whose
convictions are not on appeal,
iii. Those who have served one-half of their minimum sentence or one-third of their
maximum sentence, excluding good conduct time allowance (GTCA); and
 iv. Those who have only six months more to serve before the expiration of their
maximum sentence. (Sec. 3 and 4)
3. Classification of Inmates as to entitlement to Privileges- to determine their entitlement to
prison privileges, inmates are classified as follows:
a. Detainee- a person who is confined in prison pending preliminary investigation, trial or
appeal; or upon legal process issued by competent authority;
b. Third class inmate- one who has either been previously committed for three or more
times as a sentence inmate, except those imprisoned for non-payment of a fine and
those who had been reduced from a higher class;
c. Second class inmate- a newly arrived inmate; an inmate demoted from first class; or
one promoted from the third class;
d. First class inmate- one whose known character and credit for work while in detention
earned assignment to this class upon commencement of sentence; or one who has been
promoted from the second class;
e. Colonist- the director may, upon the recommendation of the classification board,
classify an inmate who has the following qualifications as a colonist:
i. Be at least a first class inmate and has served one year immediately preceding
the completion of the period specified in the following qualifications; and
ii. Has served imprisonment with good conduct for a period equivalent to one-fifth
of the maximum term if his prison sentence or seven years in the case of a life
sentence. (Secs. 5 and 6)
4. Privileges of a Colonist- A colonist shall have the following privileges:
a. Credit of an additional GCTA of five days for each calendar month while he retains
said classification aside from the regular GCTA authorized under Article 97 of the
Revised penal code;
b. Automatic reduction of the life sentence impose on the colonist to a sentence of 30
years;
c. Subject to the approval of the director, to have his wife and children or the woman
he desires to marry, live with him in the prison and penal farm. Transportation
expenses of the family going to and the discharge of the colonist from the prison and
penal farm shall be for the account of the government. The family may avail of all
prison facilities such as hospitals, church and school free of charge. All of the
members of the family of a colonist shall be subject to the rules governing the prison
and penal farm;
 d. As s special reward to deserving colonist, the issuance of a reasonable amount of
clothing and ordinarily household supplies form the government commissary in
addition to free subsistence; and
e. To wear civilian clothes on such special occasions as may be designated by the
Superintendent. (Sec. 7)
Note: Husband and wife inmates may be allowed to serve their sentence together in a
prison and penal farm as soon as both is classified as colonists. The grant of colonist status may
for cause be revoked at any time by the Superintendent with the approval of the Director.
(Secs. 8 and 9)

CONFINEMENT AND ACCOMMODATIONS OF INMATES

(Chapter 4, Part 11, Book 1, BuCor Manual)
1. Place of Confinement- An inmate shall only be confined in a place declared by the President
of the Philippines by Executive Order to be a place of confinement of national inmates or by
specific direction of the court, provided that a male inmate shall be committed directly to
and shall be confined in a prison nearest his actual place of residence. A prison may also be
used as a place of detention for other classes of inmates or for the temporary safekeeping
of any person detained upon legal process. (Sec. 1)
2. Security Compounds – A prison shall, whenever possible, have separate prison compounds
for the segregation of inmates according to their security classification. Each compound
shall be under Superintendent who is assisted by an Assistant Superintendent. (Sec. 2)
3. Separate Facilities - Where facilities permit, there shall be separated dormitories to house
inmates under the following categories:
a. Finally sentenced inmates;
b. Death convicts;
c. Inmates who, by reason of their criminal record, are likely to exercise negative
influence on their inmates;
d. Detainees;
e. Youth offenders or those below 18 years of age;
f. First offenders;
g. Habitual delinquents, recidivist, escapees;
h. Infirm, aged, invalids and other finally convicted inmates whose physical condition
seriously impairs their mobility;
 i. Those suffering from mental disease or abnormality including sexual deviates;
j. Female offenders;
k. Drug dependents;
l. Foreign nationals; and
m. Members of cultural minorities. (Sec. 3)
4. Prison Accommodation Standards - These are:
a. All accommodations for the use of inmates shall meet requirements of sanitation
and hygiene with emphasis on adequate ventilation, living space, and lighting.
b. Bathrooms and washing areas shall be provided in every prison facility.
c. All areas regularly used by inmates shall be properly maintained and kept clean at all
times.
d. Beds and clothing shall be neatly made up in a uniform manner at all times. Beds
and building occupied by inmates shall be thoroughly disinfected at least once a
month.
e. Cleanliness shall be maintained at all times in all dormitories or cells, specially toilet
and baths.
f. As often as it is necessary, an inmate shall send his dirty clothes to the laundry.
g. Every Sunday and holiday, if weather permits, inmates will expose their clothes,
beds, bedding and so forth in the sunshine in an area designated for the purpose.
Cleanliness of the premises of the dormitories and their surroundings shall be strictly
enforced. Littering is prohibited.
h. Inmates shall be served meals three times a day. Breakfast shall be served not more
than 14 hours after the previous day's dinner. (Sec. 4)
TRANSFER OF INMATES
(Chapter 5, Part 11, Book I, BuCor Manual)
1. Transfer of Inmates to Another Prison- An inmate may be transferred by the Director
upon the recommendation of the Superintendent concerned to another prison facility
to bring said inmates closer to his family or as part of his rehabilitation program. (Sec.
1)
2. Transfer of Insane Inmates- An inmate who has been confirmed to be mentally
abnormal or insane may be transferred to a mental hospital with the approval of the
Director. (Sec. 2)
3. Transfer of Inmate to a Stockade of the Arm Forces of the Philippines (AFP)-The
confinement of an inmate may be transferred to an AFP stockade provided the inmate
 is certified as minimum security risk and does not belong to any of the following
categories: any of the following categories:
a. Inmate serving a life term or sentenced to death:
b. Inmate with a previous record of escape;
c. Recidivist
d. Inmate serving sentence for a crime involving moral turpitude
e. Female inmate;
f. Inmate who had previously been transferred to an AFP stockade and was returned
to prison for cause,
g. Inmate who is more than 50 years old or who can no longer perform manual work;
h. Inmate who is a permanent resident of a place within a radius of 100 kilometres
from the AFP stockade where he is being transferred; or
i. Inmate with a pending case or who is a witness any pending criminal case. (Sec. 3)
4. Transfer of Inmate not Eligible to be a Colonist to a Prison and Penal Farm - Upon the
recommendation of the classification Board, the Director may also transfer to a prison
and penal farm an inmate who, although not eligible for classification as a colonist, is:
a. Physically and psychologically fit to absorb the rehabilitative program in the colony,
or
b. That such an assignment is therapeutically indicated. (Sec. 4)
5. Transfer of Inmates to a Provincial Jail and Vice Versa-The President of the Philippines
may direct, as the occasion may require, the transfer of inmates from national prison to
a provincial jail, or vice versa. The expenses for such transfers shall be borne by the
Bureau except the cost of escort service which shall be provided by the Philippine
National Police. (Sec. 5)
6. Mental and Physical Examination of Inmate to be transferred - The inmate shall be
given a mental and physical examination prior to his transfer. (Sec. 6)
OUTSIDE MOVEMENT OF INMATES
(Chapter 6 Part II, Book 1, BuCor Manual)
1. Movement of Inmate outside Confinement Facility – The Superintendent of a prison may
authorize an inmate to be taken out of prison in the following instances:
a. to appear in court or other government agency as directed by competent
authority;
 b. for medical examination/treat mentor hospitalization in an outside clinic or
hospital; or
c. to view the remains of a deceased relative. (Sec. 1)
2. Approval of Secretary of outside Movement - The prior approval of the Secretary shall be
required for the outside movement of an NBP or CIW inmate as provided in paragraphs b
and c above. (Sec.2)
3. Outside Movement of Death Convict - A death convict shall not be allowed to leave his
place of confinement except for the urgent treatment or diagnosis of a life- threatening or
serious ailment, if the diagnosis cannot be done or the treatment provided in the prison
hospital (Sec. 3)
4. Basis of Court Appearance- The court appearance of an inmate shall be based on a
subpoena issued by the court as endorsed by the Director. (Sec. 4)
5. Court Appearance of a Life Termer or Death Convict – No inmate sentenced to death or
life imprisonment confined in the NBP shall be brought outside said prison for appearance
or attendance in any court except when the Supreme Court authorizes the presiding judge
of said court, upon proper application, to effect the transfer of said inmate. The NBP
Superintendent shall request the judge in Metro Manila and in the Provinces of Rizal,
Bulacan, Cavite and Laguna who requires the appearance or attendance in any judicial
proceeding of an NBP death convict of life termer to conduct such proceeding within the
premises of the said prison. (Sec. 5)
6. Application to View the Remains of a Deceased Relative Supporting Documents- A
minimum or medium security inmate may, upon written application, be allowed by the
Superintendent to view the remains of the following relatives upon written application
and submission of the original or certified true copies of the death certificate, the burial
permit and the documents specified hereunder:
a. Wife or husband (marriage certificate);
b. Child (birth certificate of child and marriage certificate of the inmate);
c. Brother/sister (birth certificate of brother/sister and birth certificate of the inmate);
d. Father/mother (birth certificate of the inmate)
e. Grandchild (birth certificate of the inmate)
f. Grandparent (birth certificate of the inmate and of his/her parents who is the
son/daughter of the deceased grandparent). (Sec. 6)
7. When to File Application - The application to view the remains of a deceased relative and
all its supporting documents shall be filed with the Superintendent at least two days
before the enjoyment of the privileges sought. In the case of an NBP or CIW inmate, the
application in its supporting documents, together with the prison record of the inmate
and the favourable recommendation of the Superintendent thereof and the Director shall
 be forwarded to the Secretary for final action at least one working day before the
privilege is to be enjoyed. (Sec. 7)
8. Duration of Privilege- The inmate may be allowed more or less three hours to view the
deceased relative in the place where the remains lie in state but shall not be allowed to
pass any other place in transit, or to join the funeral cortege. (Sec. 8)
9. Distance of Travel- The privilege may be enjoyed only if the deceased relative is in a place
within a radius of 30 kilometres by road from the prison. Where the distance is more than
30 kilometres, the privilege may be extended if the inmate can leave and return to his
place of confinement during the daylight hours of the same day. (Sec. 9).
COMPENSATION CREDITS OF PRISONERS

(Chapter 3, Part III, Book I, BuCor Manual)

1. Inmate Compensation- Six months after being permanently assigned to work in prison, an
inmate may receive compensation credits at rates to be prescribed by the Directors,
provided:
a. He maintains good conduct; and
b. He shows interest and a definite degree of progress in the particular work assigned
to him. (Sec. 1)
2. Compensation credits- compensation credit shall be allowed in the payment of those
qualified on workmanship as may be prescribed by the director. (Sec. 2)
3. Keeping of work record of inmate- a record shall be kept of inmates showing the
workmanship classification of skilled and semi-skilled grades. The credits accruing to each
shall be made monthly in accordance with the approved recommendation of the committee
named for this purpose. A copy of the committee's recommendation, duly approved by the
Director or the Superintendent shall be furnished the Commission on Audit for his
information in connection with his duty of supervising the proper accountability of the fund
created, the credits to which shall be part of the inmate's Trust Fund. (Sec. 3)
4. Compensation Earned, How Applied -The whole or part of the compensation credits earned
by an inmate may be forfeited and applied to the payment of supplies and equipment lost
or damaged resulting from the inmate misconduct or wilful negligence. One-half of said
earnings may be utilized by the inmate to purchase one of his needs. The remainder shall be
withheld, to be paid to him upon release only. In exceptional cases, however upon
satisfactory showing of a necessity for withdrawal, the Director or the Superintendent may
authorize the disbursement of any part of the amount retained. (Sec. 4)
5. Trust Fund - Compensation credits earned by the inmate as provided for in the preceding
section and all monies received by him from any source shall be deposited in the Trust Fund
provided for the purpose. (Sec. 5)
6. Withdrawal of Earnings- The inmate may, at any time, withdraw from his compensation
earnings in an amount not exceeding one-half of his total earnings. However, in cases of
 urgent need and at the discretion of the Superintendent, the whole of his earnings may be
withdrawn. But he may, at any time, withdraw any part, or all monies received from other
sources. (See. 6)
7. Payment of trust Deposit Amount to Released Inmate-Upon the inmate's discharge from
prison he shall be given the full balance of his deposit. (Sec. 7)

INMATE COMMUNICATION
(Chapter 5, Part III, Book I, BuCor Manual)
1. Right to Communicate- An inmate shall have the right to communicate or correspond with
persons and organizations and to send and receive letters, package, books, periodicals, and
other materials that can be lawfully sent by mail. (Sec. 1)
2. Censorship of Mail Matter- All letters sent or received by an inmate, as well as magazines,
books, periodicals, and all reading materials shall be subject to censorship to prevent the
entry of contraband and the entry or exit of information that may adversely affect the
security of the prison. (Sec. 2)
3. Guidelines on Censorship of Mail Matter-The sending and receiving of mail by all inmates
shall be governed by the following guidelines:
a. Inmate mail shall be secured until such time that the censors are ready to examine
them.
b. Inmate mail shall be opened and searched by qualified, trained, and authorized
personnel.
c. Greeting cards shall be carefully examined and fillers of any kind found therein shall
be collected for laboratory examination.
d. Photograph shall be marked on the reversed side and replaced in the envelope.
e. In censoring mail, prison slang, unusual nicknames, and sentences with double
meaning shall be carefully studied and deciphered.
f. Letters passed by censor shall bear the censor’s stamp at the top of each page and
on the envelope. The letter shall be replaced in the same envelope and resealed.
g. The contents of an inmate's mail shall be confidential and shall not be discussed with
other prison personnel. (Sec. 3)
4. What May be Censored- All letters containing statement concerning the security or
reputation of the prison like escape attempts, smuggling/trafficking of contraband or
statements that may affect prison rules and policies, shall be censored. Any item or
correspondence or enclosure that does not conform to regulations or are detrimental to the
 security, good order, and discipline of the prison shall be confiscated and submitted to the
Superintendent for disposition. (Sec. 4)
5. Collection and Delivery of Mail- The mail officer shall collect and deliver mail matters on a
daily basis, Monday through Friday. An inmate shall be advised to claim his mail if he fails to
claim his letter within 24 hours after it is received in prison. (Sec. 5)
6. Expenses for special delivery of mail- Inmates shall be allowed to send letters by registered,
certified, stamped, or special delivery at their expense. (Sec. 6)
7. Sending money- Inmates may receive or send money through the prison postal service
under the supervision and assistance of designated prison officers. The mail officers shall
issue a receipt in duplicate for the amount enclosed in the inmate’s incoming letter and
shall deposit in the trust fund. The original receipt signed by the mail officer shall be filed
with the trust fund officer and the duplicate copy thereof shall be given to the inmate.
(Sec.7)
8. Mail privilege of inmates under punishment- inmates under disciplinary punishment shall
be allowed full mail privileges, unless his misconduct involves a serious violation of mail
regulations. (Sec 8)
9. Use of Telephone- All offenders who demonstrate good behaviour shall earn one telephone
call to an authorized individual every 90 days. In such a case, the telephone call shall be
monitored and shall have a duration not exceeding five minutes. When making the inmate
shall identify himself as an inmate. (Sec. 9)
10. Foreign Inmates- Inmates of a foreign nationality shall be allowed to communicate with the
diplomatic and consular representatives of the state of which he or she is a national. (Sec.
10)
11. Stateless Inmates- A national of a state without diplomatic or consular representation in
the country and a refugee or stateless person shall also be allowed to communicate with
the diplomatic authorities of the state which take charge of his or her interest or any
national or international authority tasked to protect such person. (Sec 11)

INMATE GRIEVANCE
(Chapter 11, Part III, Book I, BuCor Manual)
1. Inmate Complaint centre- To extend prompt, efficient, and timely services to the inmates,
there shall be an inmate complaints, information and assistance centre in each prison
compound which shall be under the office of the Superintendent. The centre shall act on all
written complaints that are not palpably frivolous, as well as request for information and
assistance of inmates, within 72 hours from receipt thereof. (Sec 1)
2. Inmate Council- There shall be an inmate council composed of finally convicted inmates
council composed of finally convicted inmates in every prison which shall serve as an
advisory body to the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall provide a set of
qualification, rules and regulation for membership in the council. (Sec.2)
3. Role of inmate Representatives in the inmate Council- the inmate representatives of the
inmate council shall meet the Superintendent or his representative to discuss issues and
matters affecting the prison population. The inmate representatives shall not be entitled to
special privileges and shall not have any authority over other inmates or participate in the
imposition of disciplinary measures or other interfere with prison administrative functions.
(Sec. 3)
PRISON LABOR
History of Prison Labor
"Prison Labor as Punishment in Itself," as stated in the August 1960 United Nations
Report on Prison Labor, is probably the oldest, and also the most cruel and inhuman concept of
punishment. It is found in ancient times, partly as a logical consequence of the low esteem in
which many types of labor (especially manual) were held, such labors being termed servile and
only much later being raised to an honourable status. Ancient prison labor ranged from a
sentence to work in the mines, or in the galleys, to one involving service in the armed forces.
Essentially, then, this form of punishment took the form of exploitation of the convict's labor,
to the point of complete exhaustion, if necessary, in rough, heavy and arduous work, without
compensation of any kind.
Briefly, the development of prison labor can be categorized into four stages: first, as a
punishment; second, as an integral part of punishment; third, as a means of promoting the
social rehabilitation and reformation of the prisoners; and fourth, as a part of labor in general.

PURPOSE OF PRISON LABOR IN MODERN CORRECTIONS

Far from being a punitive measure, prison labor today in modern corrections is
considered as a means of:
1. Treatment- The 12th International Penal and Penitentiary Congress at The Hague in
1950 declared, "Prison labor should be considered not as an additional punishment but
as a method of treatment of offenders."
2. Prison Labor Contributes to Economic Development- Prison labor could be effectively
harnessed to provide additional income to the government. In this connection, it is
necessary, however, that prisoners employed in productive enterprises must be paid
reasonably.
 3. Prison Labor as a Means of Maintaining or Improving the Prisoner's Ability to Work
after Release – Prison labor today is also aimed at preparing the prisoner for post-
release employment. Sooner or later, the inmate has to be released and seek a new his
place in society. To this end, he must be equipped with the requisite occupational and
vocational skills to enable him to effectively compete in the labor market.
4. Prison Labor as Vocational Training for Young Offenders- There are prisoners who had
prior education or vocational training. This kind of convicts should be given the
necessary educational or vocational training while serving imprisonment.

PRISON LABOR UNDER THE STANDARD PROCEDURE OF THE BUCOR

(Chapter 2, Part I1, Book 1, BuCor Manual)
1. Prison Labor of Finally Convicted Inmate - A finally convicted able-bodied inmate may
be required to work at least eight hours a day, except on Sunday and legal holidays, in
and about the prison, public buildings, grounds, roads, and other public works of the
national government. In the interest of the service, however, they may be required to
work on excepted days. (Sec. 1)
2. Prison Labor of a Detainee- a detainee may not be required to work in prison. However,
he may be made to polish his cell and perform such other labor as may be deemed
necessary for hygienic or sanitary reasons. (Sec.2)
3. Agreement of Detainee to Abide by Rules Imposed on Finally Convicted Inmates -
Upon his admission, the detainee shall be informed that he may be credited in the
service of his prison sentence with the full time during which he may have undergone
preventive imprisonment if he agrees in writing to abide by the same disciplinary rules
imposed on convicted inmates, provided the detainee is not a recidivist or has been
convicted previously twice or more times of any crime. If the detainee agrees, he shall
be asked to manifest his agreement in writing. (Sec. 3)
4. Certification of Superintendent if Detainee Refuses to Abide by Rules Imposed on
Finally Convicted Inmates - If the detainee does not agree to abide by the same
disciplinary rules as a finally convicted inmate, the Superintendent shall issue a
certification under oath to effect that the detainee was apprised of his right to be
credited in the service of his prison sentence with the full time during which he may
have undergone preventive imprisonment and that the inmate refused to abide by the
rules imposed upon convicted inmates. In such a case, the detainee shall be credited in
the service of his sentence with four-fifths of the time during which he has undergone
preventive imprisonment. (Sec. 4)
 5. Agreement or Certification as Part of Prison Record - The agreement or certification
mentioned above shall form part of the prison record of the detainee. (Sec. 5)
6. Female Inmate - A female inmates shall only be assigned to work on jobs suitable to her
age and physical condition. She shall be supervised only by women officers. (Sec. 6)
7. Old Inmate - An inmate over 60 years of age may be excused from mandatory labor.
(Sec. 7)
8. Place of Work Assignment- Only medium and minimum security inmates may be
assigned to work in agricultural field projects within a prison reservation. Maximum
security inmates shall not be allowed to work outside the maximum security compound.
(Sec. 8)
9. Work Program- Work programs shall be conducted in prison to promote good work
habits and self-esteem among inmates and not as a means to exploit cheap prison labor
or as a punishment for deviant behaviour. (Sec. 9)
DISCIPLINE AND PUNISHMENT OF INMATES
Discipline is the training that develops self-control, character or orderliness, and
efficiency. It is a system of rules or methods, for the correction of the conduct of a person or
several persons. Discipline and order in a penal institution should be maintained with firm
authority, but only the necessary restrictions should be given for the safe custody of the
prisoners and for a well-ordered community life in the institution.
No inmate should be employed in any disciplinary capacity by the prison authorities.
This should not, however, hamper the functioning of any system based on the self-government
of the inmates under which the various social and educational activities of the prisoners are
delegated, under supervision, to trustworthy prisoners.
Punishment is the penalty imposed on an offender for a crime or wrongdoing. The types
and duration of punishment, which maybe inflicted on the prisoners, should always be
determined by law and by the regulation of the competent administrative authority. Thus, the
prisoners should be punished in accordance with terms of the rule promulgated by law and
never twice for the same offense. The punishments must always be relevant to the offense
Committed.

DISCIPLINE OF INMATES
(Chapter 1, Part IV, Book 1, BuCor Manual)
Due Process Accorded to an inmate
 Every breach of discipline shall be reported to proper prison authorities. The erring
inmate shall be given due process before he is punished. Ignorance of prison rules shall not be
countenanced or considered an excuse for its non-observance (Bucor Manual 23)
Prohibited Acts
The following acts shall subject an inmate to disciplinary action:
1. Participating in illegal sexual acts or placing himself in Situations or behaviour that will
encourage the commission of illegal sexual acts;
2. Openly or publicly displaying photographs, pictures, drawings, or other pictorial
representations of person engaged in sexual acts, actual or simulated, masturbation,
excretory functions, or lewd or obscene exhibitions of the genitals;
3. Possessing articles which pose a threat to prison security or to the safety and well-being
of the inmates and staff;
4. Giving gifts, selling, or engaging in barter with prison personnel;
5. Maligning or insulting any religious belief or group;
6. Rendering personal services to or requiring personal services from a fellow inmate;
7. Gambling;
8. Exchanging uniform with another inmate or wearing a uniform other those officially
issued to him;
9. Using profane, vulgar or obscene language or making loud or unusual noise of any kind;
10. Loitering in the prison compound or reservation;
11. Giving a gift or providing material or other assistance to fellow inmates or to the prison
administration in general;
12. Engaging in any private work for the benefit of a prison officer or employee;
13. Controlling the activities of other inmates except in organizations or groups recognized
by prison authorities;
14. Tattooing himself or allowing himself to be tattooed on any part of his body. The
removal or alteration of tattoos may only be performed by a prison medical officer upon
prior approval by the Superintendent;
15. Disobeying legal orders of prison authorities promptly and courteously;
16. Threatening, orally or in writing, the life of any employee or prison official;
 17. Possessing any communication device like a cellular telephone, pager or radio
transceiver;
18. Constructing, renovating or repairing, with personal funds, a prison building or
structure;
19. Making frivolous or groundless complaints; and
20. In general, displaying any behaviour which might lead to disorder or violence, or such
other actions that may endanger the facility, the outside community or others. (Sec. 4)
PUNISHMENT
(Chapter 2, Part IV, Book I, BuCor Manual)
1. Board of Discipline; Composition- the Director shall establish a Board of Discipline in
each prison to hear cases involving an inmate who violates prison rules. It shall be
presided over by the Assistant Superintendent. (Sec. 1)
2. Procedure in Disciplinary Cases- The procedure in handling disciplinary cases shall be as
follows:
a. The written complaint or report of an aggrieved inmate or any inmate or prison
personnel having knowledge of any breach of discipline by an inmate shall be filed
with the office of the Superintendent. The complaint or report shall be signed by the
complainant and shall describe the violation and the names of possible witnesses.
b. If the Superintendent, after initial investigation, finds that the complaint or report is
baseless, he shall order its dismissal. Otherwise, he shall endorse the case to the
Board of Discipline for hearing.
c. The Board of Discipline shall hold sessions as often as necessary. It shall decide cases
referred to it within five working days after termination of hearings.
d. The hearing shall be summary in nature and shall not be bound by the technical
rules of evidence.
e. The inmate charged with the offense shall be allowed to present evidence in the
hearing.
f. The decision of the Board of Discipline shall be subject to review and approval by the
Superintendent.
g. A decision approved by the Superintendent shall be final. (Sec. 2)
3. Protection of Inmate from Institutional Abuse – An inmate shall be treated with respect
and fairness by prison employees. He shall be protected against the following:
 a. The imposition of any cruel, unusual or degrading act as a form of disciplinary
punishment;
b. Corporal punishment;
c. The use of physical force by correctional officers except in cases where the latter act
in self-defence to protect another person from imminent physical attack, or to
prevent a riot or escape;
d. Deprivation of clothing, bed and bedding, light, ventilation, exercise, food, or
hygienic facilities; and
e. Forced labor. (Sec. 3)
4. Imposable Punishment- The Board of Discipline shall be authorized to impose any of the
following disciplinary measures on an errant inmate:
a. Caution reprimand.
b. Cancellation of recreation, education, entertainment and visiting privileges.
c. Deprivation of GCTA for a specified period.
d. Change of security status to the next higher category, e.g., from medium to
maximum. (Sec. 4)
5. Confinement in Disciplinary Cell- If the corrective measures prove to be ineffective, an
obstinate inmate may be punished by confinement in a disciplinary cell from one to two
months depending upon the gravity of the offense committed. The punishment shall
only be meted out if the prison medical officer, after examination, certifies that the
inmate is fit to undergo the same or will not adversely affect his physical or mental
health. (Sec. 5)
6. Mitigation Punishment - For the first offense, and if the inmate's conduct justifies it, the
Superintendent may mitigate, suspend, or modify the penalty imposed on an inmate.
7. Release from Disciplinary Cell- The prison medical Officer shall visit periodically the
inmate in the disciplinary cell and shall advice the Superintendent punishment shall be
terminated on grounds or physical or mental health. (Sec. 7)
8. Use of Instrument of Restraint- Instrument of restraint, includes handcuffs, chains, iron
and strait jackets, shall not be applied as punishment. They shall only be used:
a. to prevent an escape during an inmate’s transfer or movement;
b. To prevent an inmate from harming himself or others or from destroying public
or private property. (Sec. 8)
9. Limitation on Punishment to be imposed on Female Inmate- a female inmate shall not
be subjected to disciplinary measures which might adversely affect her unborn or
nursing child.
 10. Disciplinary Punishment to Form Part of Record of an Inmate - The penalty imposed by
the Board of Discipline shall form part of the carpeta and prison record of an inmate.
Note: Instrument of restraint is one which checks or suppresses the physical liberty of
prisoners.

REHABILITATION AND TREATMENT OF INMATES

(Chapter 1, Part V, Book 1, BuCor Manual)
The following are the rehabilitation and treatment of inmates:
1. Conduct of Rehabilitation and Treatment Programs- the Bureau shall undertake
rehabilitation and treatment programs to help an inmate lead a responsible, law
abiding, and productive life upon release. Efforts shall be made to ensure an optimum
balance between the security of the prison and the effectiveness of treatment
programs. Inmate and public safety, and the requirements for effective custody, shall,
however, take precedence over an activities at all times and shall not be compromised.
(Sec. 1)
2. Rehabilitation and Treatment Programs – Rehabilitation and treatment programs shall
focus on providing services that will encourage and enhance the inmate’s self-respect,
self-confidence, personal dignity, and of responsibility. (Sec. 2)
3. Guidelines for Rehabilitation and Treatment Programs- The following guidelines shall
be observed in the establishment of rehabilitation and treatment program for inmates:
a. Corrective and rehabilitation services shall include religious; psychotherapy;
socialization; health and sanitation, vocational training; mental, physical and sports
development; and value and education.
b. Programs and activities for offenders with special needs shall be placed under the
supervision of a social welfare officer in coordination with other correctional officers
with special skills and specialized training.
c. A regular calendar of activities shall be observed.
d. The Superintendent shall be periodically informed on the progress or result of the
rehabilitation and treatment programs being implemented.
e. There shall be a special wing for neuro-psychiatric patients in a prison hospital to be
placed under the special supervision of a medical officer. The latter shall submit a
weekly report on the patients therein and may recommend the necessary transfer of
a mental patient to a better-equipped government hospital. (Sec. 3)
Inmate Services
(Chapter 2, Part V, Book 1, BuCor Manual)
1. Inmate Services- As part of the prison rehabilitation and treatment program, the
inmate shall be guaranteed access to health, education, religious, and related
rehabilitation services. (Sec. 1)
NOTE:
a. Food is the general term for all matter that is taken into the body for nourishment.
All prisoners should, be provided by the prison authorities with sufficient food of
nutritive value at the usual hours.
b. Exercise includes any activity which has for its aim the training or development or
mind. It may be a regular series of movement designed to strengthen or develop
some part or the body or some faculty.
c. Sport is any activity or experience that gives enjoyment or recreation; such an
activity requires more or less vigorous bodily exertion and carried on according to
some traditional form or set of rules whether they are held indoors or outdoors. The
prison should have the facilities for sports that may be indulged in by the prisoners.
d. Library is a collection of books and other graphic materials tor reading or reference.
All institutions should have a library for the use of all categories of prisoners.
2. Health Services - Health care and services shall be given to inmates similar to those
available in the free community and subject to prison regulations. A prison shall have at
least one qualified medical doctor and dentist. (Sec. 2)
Note: Medical Services of the institution should include those services with the
diagnosis, treatment, curing and prevention of diseases; the relief of pain and the
improvement and preservation of the health of the prisoners.

3. Medical Consultation and Visiting Hours – Medical consultation and visiting hours shall
be established by the Superintendent in consultation with the medical staff. (Sec. 3)
4. Basic Guidelines on Medical Consultations The following guidelines shall be observed
whenever inmate visits a prison hospital/clinic for consultation and/or treatment:
a. The inmate shall be in proper uniform during Consultations.
b. He shall be attended to on a "first-come, first-served basis.
c. The number of inmates allowed at the hospital/ clinic for consultation/treatment
shall defend on the number of available doctors.
d. An inmate shall be subjected to a body search upon entering and leaving the prison
hospital/clinic.
e. In emergency cases, only the medical staff and the patient shall be allowed inside
the emergency room.
 f. An inmate shall not loiter in the hospital/clinic or leave the same without permission
from the medical staff.
g. Visitors of inmates shall not be allowed to stay inside the hospital/clinic to attend to
the sick inmate without the permission of the medical staff.
h. Children below 12 years of age shall not be allowed to stay inside a hospital ward or
treatment room.
i. Patients in the hospital shall not be required to stand for checking. (Sec. 4)
5. Pregnant CIW Inmates- in the CIW, there shall be special accommodations for pregnant
women. Whenever practicable, however, arrangement shall be made for children to be
born in a hospital outside the prison. (Sec. 5)
6. Infant Born to a CIW Inmate - An infant born while the mother is serving sentence in
the CIW may be allowed to stay with the mother for a period not exceeding one year.
After the lapse of said period, if the mother of the infant fails to place the child in a
home of her own, the Superintendent shall make arrangement with the Department of
Social Welfare and Development or any other social welfare agency for the infants care.
As far as practicable, the CIW shall have a nursery staff by qualified personnel. (Sec. 6)
7. Recommendation for Release of Seriously-ill Inmate –The prison medical officer shall
visit all Sick inmates daily and attend to those who complain of any ailment. He shall
render a report to the Superintendent whenever he considers that an inmate's mental
or physical health has been or will be injuriously affected by continued imprisonment or
by any condition of confinement. (Sec. 7)
8. Notification of Kin of Sick or Dead Inmate – Whenever an inmate is critically ill or dies,
the prison medical officer shall report the matter to the Superintendent who in turn
shall notify the inmate's family by the fastest means of communication available. (Sec.
8)
9. Meals in Hospital/Clinic- Meals shall be served in a prison hospital/clinic at the same
time that the food is served to the other inmates, unless directed otherwise by the
prison medical officer. Inmates assigned to work in the hospital/clinic shall be provided
with food rations coming from the general kitchen. (Sec. 9)
10. Referral of Inmate for Outside Medical Consultation Treatment - An inmate who needs
medical treatment or examination that cannot be provided in the prison hospital may
be referred to a hospital/clinic outside the prison for the needed examination,
treatment, or hospitalization. The expenses for the outside medical referral shall be
borne by the inmate. During said referral, the inmate shall be accompanied by a
member of the prison medical staff. (Sec. 10)
 11. Medical Certification- The outside medical examination treatment, or hospitalization of
an inmate shall be supported by a certification of the medical officer or, there is none,
by a government physician, which shall Specify the exact ailment of the inmate, the
treatment or examination required, the duration of the hospitalization that may be
required, and shall certify that the ailment cannot be properly attended to in the prison
hospital, provided, that in the case of an NBP or CIW inmate, the request for outside
medical referral shall be forwarded by the Director to the Secretary for approval at least
one day before the proposed referral. (Sec. 11)
12. Referral to Government Hospital - Unless absolutely necessary, an inmate shall be
referred to a government clinic, hospital, or institutions for the required examination,
treatment, or hospitalization. If the referral is made to private institutions, the expenses
incident thereto shall be borne by the inmate. (Sec. 12)
13. Outside Referral for Dental Work- Except in emergency cases, no dental work for an
inmate shall be done outside prison, and in cases of restoration work, expenses shall be
borne by the inmate. (Sec. 13)
14. Donation of Human Organ; Form of Donation – The Director may authorize an inmate
to donate to a licensed physicians, surgeon, known scientist, or any medical or scientific
institution, including eye banks and other similar institutions any organ, part or parts of
his body and to utilize the same for medical, surgical or scientific purposes, or for the
utilization for medical, surgical, or scientific purposes, of said organ, or body part or
parts which, for a legitimate reason, would be detached from the body of the grantor,
subject to the following conditions:
a. The organ or body part or parts being donated shall be detached after the death
of the inmate.
b. The authorization to detach or use the organ or body part or parts shall be in
writing; specify the person or institution granted the authorization, the organ,
part or parts to be detached, the specific use or uses of the organ or body part or
parts to be employed; and shall be signed by the inmate and attested by two
disinterested witnesses.
c. The donation is approved by the proper court. (Sec.14)
15. Disposition of Cadaver of Deceased Inmate – Unless Claimed by his family, the body of
an inmate who dies in prison may be turned over to an institution of learning or any
scientific research centre designated by the Secretary, for the purpose of study and
investigation, provided that such institution shall provide a decent burial of the remains.
Otherwise, the Bureau shall order the burial of the body of the inmate at government
expense, granting permission to the members of the family and friends of the inmate to
 be present thereat. If the body is claimed by the family, all expenses incident to the
burial to the burial shall be at the expense of the family. (Sec. 15)
16. Burial of Convict - In no case shall the burial of a convict be held with pomp. (Sec. 16)
17. Adult Education - All illiterate inmates shall attend adult education classes. Literate
inmates may attend classes corresponding to their educational level. (Sec. 17)
18. Educational Programs for Inmates - A prison may offer any or all of the following
educational programs:
a. Elementary education;
b. Secondary education program to prepare students to successfully pass the
required tertiary level qualification examination and to receive a regular high
school diploma. A student will have completed the program when all the credits
required for a regular high school diploma from accredited institution have been
earned;
c. College education; and
d. Vocation training. (Sec. 18)
Note: Vocation training may be utilized to discourage idleness among inmates but lately,
emphasis is also placed on the giving of special training courses to the prisoners as
preparation for release.

19. Certificate of Completion- The inmate shall be issued a certificate/diploma upon

successful complication of an educational program of course. The certificate shall form
part of his prison record. (Sec. 19)
20. Recreational and Cultural Activities- Recreational and Cultural activities shall be
provided in all prison for the benefit of the mental and physical health of the inmate.
(Sec. 20)
CUSTODIAL AND SECURITY PROCEDURES
(Part III, Book II, BuCor Manual)
The following are the custodial and security procedures:
1. Security conditions of confinement facility- all doors, bars, windows and locks of security
facilities shall be examined regularly to insure their integrity and good condition. All prison
personnel, regardless of assignment shall be responsible for the security of prison facilities.
They shall immediately report any sign of defect or deterioration in the security system to
their immediate supervisor. (Sec.1)
2. Perimeter Fences- Maximum and medium security compounds must maintain two parallel
security barriers or perimeter fences provided with sufficient lighting fixtures to prevent
escapes or jail breaks. These shall be periodically inspected by the general services division
 and the commander of the guards. Electrified fences shall be equipped with warning signs
to avoid accidental injury to both custodial personnel and visitors. (Sec. 2)
3. Vehicle Control - Privately-owned vehicles of employees and residents of a prison
reservation shall be provided with security tags or stickers for proper identification and
clearance at the entry and exit gates. All other transportation must be checked for both
passengers and cargo. (Sec. 3)
4. Vehicular Access to Prison Compounds- No privately owned vehicle shall be allowed
access to a prison compound except upon prior written clearance from the
Superintendent. All vehicles shall be checked at the inner and outer gates upon entry and
exit. (Sec. 4)
5. Inmate Head Count - A head count of inmates shall be conducted four times a day or as
often as necessary to ensure that all inmates are duly accounted for. (Sec. 5)
6. Procedure for Inmate Count-The procedure for counting a periodic physical head count of
inmates shall be as follows:
a. During the count, the inmates shall not be allowed to move until the count is
completed.
b. There must be a positive verification of an inmate's presence. Counting an inmate as
present on the basis of seeing any part of his clothing, his hair, or shoes shall not be
made.
c. A written report on the results of each head count shall be submitted to the Chief
Overseer.
d. If the inmate count does not tally with the list of inmates, the matter shall be
immediately reported to the Chief Overseer. (Sec. 6)
7. Location of Armoury-The prison armoury shall be located outside of the main prison and
the inmate's work/activity area. (Sec. 7)
8. Security Measures while Serving/Delivering Meals- If meals are served in a dining room or
similar facility, the following security measures shall be observed:
a. Inmates shall be marched in columns of two's along designated routes under the
supervision of one or two guards. Other guards may be stationed along the route to
direct the orderly movement of inmates to and from the mess hall.
b. A roving supervisor shall establish order in the dining room area.
c. After meals, all eating and kitchen utensils of inmates shall be collected and
accounted. (Sec. 8)
9. Visitor Control; Body Search of Visitors - All visitors, including prison personnel, shall be
subjected to a thorough body search and their belongings/packages Screened for
contraband before entering the prison Compound. Women visitors shall be searched only
by female guards or employees. (Sec. 9)
10. Filing of Criminal/Administrative Charges-Those found with contraband hidden in their
body or belongings shall be barred from entering the prison compound and in the proper
case, charged criminally/administratively. (Sec. 10)
11. Bringing out Food and Prison Issue - Visitors shall not be allowed to bring out food or
other articles issued for the consumption or use of inmates. (Sec. 11)
12. Control of Prison Keys - Only the following shall be authorized to possess the keys of
prison gates, cells, dormitories, and hospital wards:
a. Gate Officer;
b. Officer-of-the-Day or Shift Commander;
c. Keeper; and
d. Custodial or Medical Officer designated by the Superintendent. (Sec. 12)

SECURITY PROCEDURES DURING RIOTS AND OTHER PRISON DISTURBANCES

PRISON RIOTS
Reason that generate large-scale rioting
The American Correctional Association gives these reasons for prison flare-ups:
1. Unnatural institutional environment;
2. Anti-social characteristics of inmates;
3. Inept management;
4. Inadequate personnel practices
5. Inadequate facilities
6. Insufficient legitimate rewards;
7. Insufficient constructive, meaningful activity;
8. Basic social values and unrest in larger community;
9. Inadequate finances; and
10. Inequities and complexities in the criminal justice system

Other Causes of Prison Riots

In a more recent analysis, Randy Martin and Scherwood Zimmerman have identified the
following causes of prison riots:

1. Environment Conditions- poor physical conditions make the prison a “time bomb” waiting
to go off.
2. Spontaneity- some spark, a fight between gangs, escalates into a general prison
disturbance.
3. Conflict- a repressive administration denies inmate right, which leads to violence.
4. Collective behaviour and social control- Informal social control mechanism, such as inmate
leaders and councils, break down and violence escalates.
5. Power Vacuum- a conflict between guards and the administration creates an anomic
conditions exploited by the inmates.
6. Rising expectations- Inmate expect increased freedom and better conditions. When these
are not met, their frustration leads to collective violence.
SECURITY PROCEDURES DURING EMERGENCIES, RIOTS, ESCAPES OR MAJOR DISTURBANCES
(Part IV, Book II, BuCor Manual 2000)

1. Emergency control centre- A prison shall establish a control timely implementation of

detailed plan of action to cope with emergency situations caused by fires or conflagrations,
riots, or other violent disturbances or escapes. The Control centre shall be under the
command of the superintendent or, in his absence, the most senior prison guard present.
(Sec.1)
2. Riots and other prison disturbances- In the event of riots or other prison disturbances, all
officials and employees of the prison where the incident occurs shall be placed on 24-hours
alert to perform such tasks as may be necessary to quell the disorder or normalize the
situation. (Sec.2)
3. Sounding alarm – Whenever a riot or escapes alarm is sounded, either by siren, bell or
gunfire, all inmates shall be ordered to lie flat on the ground, face down and with arms and
legs spread out. On such occasions, when warnings are discharged, the guards shall use
reasonable force to carry out the instructions. (Sec. 3)
4. Procedure during riots and disturbances- the following procedures shall be followed in the
case of riots and other violent disturbances:
a. At the sound of the first alarm, all inmates shall be locked up inside their respective
cells/quarters. An inmate work crew shall be immediately returned areas for prison
compound or to previously designated areas for accounting and confinement after a
head count.
b. If the disturbance occurs during visiting hours, all visitors shall be immediately
ushered out of prison compound or if this is not possible, brought to a pre-
determined area inside said compound. In the latter case, the visitors shall not be
allowed to leave said area or the compound until the disturbance has ceased and
the inmates have been properly accounted for.
c. At the same time, all guards who are not on duty shall be directed to immediately
report to the desk officer. All critical post shall be manned to prevent escapes. The
most senior guard present shall take command of the custodial force and make
assessment of the situation.
d. All telephone calls to and from prison compound shall be controlled.
e. The Armorer shall issue the necessary anti-riot equipment and firearms.
f. Based on his assessment of the prevailing conditions, the guards in command shall
deploy the guards into the following groups:
1st group- this is the initial wave of anti-riot assault contingent who shall be
armed with wicker shields, protective headgear, gas masks, and night sticks or batons,
when these are available. The objective of this group are to disperse the rioters and get
their leaders.
2nd group- this is the back-up force of the 1 st group who shall be equipped with
tear gas guns and gas grenades.
3rd group- this is composed of guards who are trained in the proper handling and
use of firearms. Under the direct command of the guard-in-charge, they shall provide
covering fire to the first two groups.
g. When the three groups mentioned above are ready, the guard-in-charge shall direct
the inmates to cease and desist to return to their respective cells and warn them of
the consequences if they do not obey. The leaders, if known, shall be addressed
directly.
h. If the inmates fail or refuse to heed the order to return to their cells, the guard-in-
charge shall sound the second alarm. There upon the first group shall enter into the
prison compound followed by the second group at a discreet distance. The third
group shall be in strategic position, ready to fire if the lives of the guards in the first
and second groups are endangered by overt violent acts of the inmates.
 i. The 1st group shall be tasked with quelling the riot and getting the leaders of the
rioting group. If they meet stiff resistance, the head of the group shall immediately
order their withdrawal.
j. Thereafter, the guard-in-charge shall order the 2 nd group to fire tear gas on the
inmates. When the area where the rioters are found is saturated with the gas, the 1 st
group shall attack using their batons to force the rioters into their cells and to get
the leaders. The use of pressurized water from the fire truck, if any, may be resorted
to.
k. At the earliest opportunity, the guard-in-charge shall report the prison disturbance
to the nearest police station and to the director who shall in turn inform the
secretary.
l. When the condition has become critical and the disturbance has reached full
intensity, the guard-in charge shall cause the sounding of the third alarm. At the
instance, the control centre shall notify all police agencies nearby for assistance and
then all other plans in connection with prison uprising shall then be executed.
Nearby hospitals shall also be notified if the situation demands.
m. As an extreme measure to prevent mass jail break or serious assault upon the
members of the prison administration, the selected marksman of the 3 rd group may
be ordered by the guard-in-charge to fire warning shots at the rioter. If the rioter do
not desist, the order to fire shall be given but only to main designated targets
belongings to the rioting group.
n. After the riot or disturbance, the following procedures shall be followed:
i. Administer first aid to the injured;
ii. Conduct a head count;
iii. Segregate ring leaders and agitators;
iv. Assess and determine the damage to the facilities;
v. persons involved in the riot;
vi. Repair the damage;
vii. Adopt measures to prevent repetition of similar incidents; and
viii. Submit a report on the incidents to the secretary. (Sec. 4)
4. Procedure during an Escape or jailbreak- the following procedures shall be followed in the
case of escapes or jail breaks:
a. When a jail break is in progress or has just occurred, the control centre shall
immediately sound the alarm and the Superintendent or the Commander of the
General shall be notified.
b. At the first sound of the alarm, all inmates shall be locked in their respective cells
while those in work detail shall be marched in orderly manner to their cells.
c. All prison personnel who are not on duty shall report to the prison immediately and
make themselves available for emergency deployment. The armorer shall issue
firearms to members of the custodial force who shall be immediately dispatched to
strategic posts.
d. A head count shall be made simultaneously in different cells/quarters of inmates to
determine the identity of the escapee. Prison personnel assigned to essential posts
such as the powerhouse, kitchen hospitals, fire station etc. shall also make a head
count of the inmates under their supervision and report the results thereof to the
Control Centre.
e. If the identity of the escapee is established, his name and other personal
circumstances shall be immediately flashed to all units of the Philippine National
Police in the vicinity.
f. Radio and television stations and other news media shall shall also be notified of the
escape and if possible, provided with photographs of the escapee.
g. A recovery team shall be form by the Superintendent to proceed to all known lairs,
hangouts, residences and house of immediate relatives and friends of the escapee.
h. In case of mass jail breaks, all members of the custodial force shall be immediately
issued firearms and assigned to critical post to seal off all possible escape routes
while a team shall search the prison premises. Prison personnel who are off-duty
shall be required to report for duty immediately.
i. If any prison officer or employee is held hostage by the escapee, reasonable caution
to insure safety shall be taken. If is the Superintendent who is taken as hostage, the
assistant Superintendent shall assume the command.
j. If the no hostage was taken and the escapee is unable to leave the prison premises
but refuses to surrender to the prison authorities, the basic plan on riots or
disturbances shall be implemented.
k. After the escape, the Superintendent shall conduct an investigation relative to the
escape to determine the liability of the officer/ employee under whose custody the
inmate escaped. A review of security procedures and an ocular inspection of the
prison facilities shall be also be made to determine the existence of any gaps or
 flows. A report on the result of said review shall be submitted to the Secretary.
(Sec.5)

ESCORT PROCEDURES

(Chapter 1, BuCor Escort Procedures and transporting high Risk Prisoners 2008)

1. Primary duties of escort guards- escort guards shall exercise extreme caution at all times
and shall see to it that the inmate does not:
a. Escape;
b. Converse with unauthorized person;
c. Obtain forbidden articles, especially intoxicant or weapons;
d. Annoy passers-by; and
e. Suffer harm or humiliation. (Sec.1)
2. Distance of guard from inmates- in escorting a group of inmates, a guard shall keep a
distance of not less than 10 paces from his charge. Upon arrival at the destination he shall
station himself at a vantage point where all the inmate are within sight and can be properly
controlled.
When on board a ship or boat, the group of inmates shall be positioned in the most
secure part of the vessel and shall be required to sit down. The guards shall station himself
at strategic points where they can effectively respond. An inmate shall not be allowed to
stand up or move about until the vessel is ready to dock, except when the guard needs to
have a clear view of the port and starboard passages. (Sec.2)
3. Basic escort procedures- An escort guards shall strictly observe the instructions written at
the back of the inmate’s pass and the purpose and destination of the escort mission. These
include, but not limited to the following:
a. While in transit, the inmate shall not be allowed to stop at any place or contact any
person until destination is reached.
b. The inmate shall at all-time be placed under proper restraint, e.g. handcuffs.
However, the same shall be removed when the inmate enters the courtroom.
c. The inmate shall be returned to the prison facility immediately after the purpose of
the pass has been served.
d. The used of a privately-owned vehicle in transporting an inmate is prohibited. (Sec 3)
4. Escort Procedures for court appearance- in escort duties for court hearing, the
Superintendent shall provide at least two guards for every inmate. However, when two or
more inmates are to be escorted, the number of guards may be reduced proportionately
 without sacrificing security requirements. If an inmates is notorious or has a previous record
of escape, additional escort guards shall be assigned. (Sec. 4)
5. Appearance in Metro Manila Courts- In conducting NBP or CIW inmates for appearance in
metro Manila courts, the escort detail shall be headed by supervising guards or by senior
officer. If the court concerned is the suburbs of Metro Manila e.g. Cavite, Bulacan, Rizal,
Laguna and Batangas the escort shall return their wards to the NBP or CIW immediately
after the hearing. (Sec.5)
6. Turnover of Inmate to Local Jail - a guard assigned to escort an inmate for court hearings
who cannot return to the prison of origin on the same day shall request the Court to issue
an order turning over the inmate to the nearest provincial/city jail or police detention cell.
The escort guard shall not stay in a private dwelling or hotel with the inmate. (Sec. 6)
7. Acknowledgement of Turnover of inmate -upon turning the inmate over to an authorized
officer at the destination, the escort-in-charge shall secure an acknowledgement receipt for
the custody of the inmate. This shall clearly bear the name of the receiving officer, his
designation and the date and time the inmate was received. (Sec. 7)
8. Postponement/Resetting of Hearing - after the hearing or if the scheduled hearing is
postponed/ reset to another date, the inmate shall be returned to the prison of origin
without delay. If feasible, the escort- in-charge shall secure from the court an order
committing the inmate to the provincial/ city jail or other detention center. (Sec. 8)
9. Procedure if Escort Guard becomes Sick - if the escort guard becomes sick, he shall notify
the Superintendent of the prison of origin thereof by the fastest means available so that a
replacement can be sent to continue the mission. (Sec. 9)
10. Fake or Spurious Subpoena - If the subpoena received by the prison turns out to be
spurious, or if, in spite of a valid subpoena, the scheduled trial is not held, the inmate shall
immediately returned to the prison of origin. The escort-in-charge shall submit a written
report to the Superintendent on the matter. (Sec. 10)
11. Certificate of Appearance- Immediately after the trial but before leaving the court
premises, the escort-in-charge shall secure from the clerk of court a certificate or other
proof of appearance. (Sec. 11)
12. Procedure During Outside Movement of Inmates – the following security procedures shall
be observed during the outside movement of an inmate:
a. Before Departure from Prison:

i. The written mission order issued by the Superintendent, the mitimus and other
prison records of the inmate shall be given to the escort guards. In case of
detainee, the records shall include the written authorization of the appellate or
sentencing court for the outside movement of the detainee.
ii. Whenever possible, the transfer shall be effected during daylight hours.
 iii. The escort guards shall be given detailed instruction on their duties and
responsibilities, to include the instruction that they use the most direct travel
route to their authorized destination.
iv. The inmate shall be thoroughly searched for contraband or deadly weapons or
objects which may be used for escape or self-destruction.
v. Money found in the possession of the inmate shall be confiscated by the Desk
Officer who shall issue a receipt therefor and who shall return the money to the
inmate upon his return. If the inmate is to be confined and needs money for
medicine or food, the money therefor shall be turned over under receipt to the
escort guard. All disbursements made by the escort guard shall be properly
receipted for.
vi. The inmate shall be placed in handcuffs or other instrument of restraint. If there
is more than one inmate to be transferred, they shall be grouped in pairs and
securely connected to one another by a rope, ascertaining that the inmate does
not have crippled, deformed or very small hands to allow him to slip the
handcuffs off.
vii. Handcuffs shall be properly adjusted for tightness before departure to avoid the
need of adjusting the same while in transit.
viii. The inmate shall stay inside the prison premises until the vehicle to be used in
transporting him is ready for boarding. The inmate shall board a motor vehicle
ahead of the guard.
b. In transit:

i. The handcuffs or instrument of restraint shall not be removed while the inmates
are in transit. An inmate shall not be handcuffed to any part of the vehicle during
transit to avoid his being trapped in case of a vehicular accident.
ii. If it is necessary to board public transportation such as a ship or airplane, the
guards shall position themselves with their inmates in an area that is cleared of
civilians or if this is not possible, shall sit/position themselves between the
civilians and the inmate/s.
iii. All inmates being escorted shall be under the supervision of a guard at all times,
including going to the toilet or washroom. The guard shall always be close
enough to the inmate to respond to any untoward incident.
iv. If there is more than one inmate escorted, there shall be a head count of the
inmates every turnover of guarding shift. The team leader of the escort guard
shall conduct an inspection during all guarding shifts.
 v. An inmate shall not be allowed to tinker with his handcuffs or other instrument
of restraint.
vi. A guard shall always walk behind and not in front of the inmate, or in case, allow
the inmate to reach his firearm.
vii. The guard shall not pass any unauthorized place while in transit.

c. Arrival at Destination

i. Upon arrival at the authorized destination, the guards and their inmate/s shall
stay in the public transportation until the same is cleared of the other
passengers. They shall only disembark after the inmate and his personal
belongings have been searched/ inspected and the transportation that will bring
them finally to their final destination is ready for boarding
ii. The handcuffs or instrument of restraint may be removed at the authorized
destination if there is no danger of escape.
iii. The guard shall return the inmate to the prison of origin as soon as the purpose
of the outside movement has been served.
d. After-Mission Report - after completing the mission, the leader of the guard detail shall
submit a written report to the Superintendent, together with copies of the transmittal
letter and certificate of appearance. In case of an inmate being transferred to another
prison or jail institution or competent authority, the responsibility for said inmate shall
remain with the custodian until formally received by another custodian. (Sec. 14)

13. Other Security Procedure - The following security procedures shall also be observed in case
of an inmate subject of a medical referral or who is allowed to view the remains of a
deceased relatives:
a. Medical Referrals:
i. The inmate who 1s brought to an outside hospital for medical
treatment/examination shall be provided with at least two (2) escort guards and
returned to the prison of origin during the daylight hours after the treatment is
completed. Upon said return, the Department shall be furnished copies of the
inmate's medical certificate, diagnosis and plan of management.
ii. If the inmate is to be confined in a hospital, the inmate may be handcuff to the
bed if he as ambulatory and there is a risk that he may escape.
b. Viewing the Remains:
 i. The inmate shall not be allowed more than three (3) hours from the time of
arrival at the wake to the time of departure from the place where the remains lie
in state.
ii. The remains to be viewed must be in a place within a radius of thirty (30)
kilometres from the place of confinement. Where the distance is more than 30
kilometres, the privilege may be enjoyed if the inmate can leave and return to
his place of confinement during the daylight hours of the same day. (Sec. 13)

14. Outside Work Detail of Medium Security Inmates- In case a medium security inmate is
detailed to work outside the immediate vicinity of the prison compound, the following
security procedures shall be observed:
a. In no case shall an inmate be allowed to work outside the prison compound without an
escort guard.
b. Security shall be on a one inmate to one guard ratio.
c. The inmate shall be bodily searched before and after his work detail. (Sec. 14)