The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) is set to enhance faith-based programs as a central part of restorative rehabilitation for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. said initiatives like group Bible reading, worship services, and pastoral counseling aim to foster spiritual growth and support identity transformation among PDLs.
By promoting empathy, forgiveness, and accountability, Catapang noted that faith-based programs help create safer prison environments conducive to healing and reintegration.
In a statement, BuCor highlighted that its approach mirrors global trends toward holistic correctional reform.
Catapang shared insights from the International Research in Corrections Conference in Auckland, New Zealand, last March, which showed that PDLs involved in faith-based programs demonstrated greater progress toward rehabilitation.
“The PDLs’ increased religious involvement — particularly their enhanced relationship with Jesus Christ and active participation in religious practices — contributed to this positive transformation,” Catapang said.
He added that participants also showed lower aggression toward fellow inmates, helping reduce violence within correctional facilities.