The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Regional Office MIMAROPA has lined up various activities to commemorate the 30th National Correctional Consciousness Week (NACOCOW), scheduled from October 21 to 27, 2024.
This year's theme is “Makataong Pakikitungo, Matinong Pamumuno at Matatag na Prinsipyo Tungo sa Maunlad na Serbisyong Pampiitan.”
Jail Senior Superintendent Clarence Mayangao, the regional director of BJMP MIMAROPA, highlighted that the celebration aims to raise awareness among both public and private sectors about the importance of rehabilitation and reformation programs for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
“There are various programs advocating for positive change and development of PDLs, including literacy programs, medical and dental outreach missions, legal consultations and counseling by the Public Attorney’s Office, spiritual enrichment, and cultural and sports festivals,” said Mayangao.
BJMP personnel across district, municipal, and city jails will participate in these efforts, ensuring the safety and well-being of the approximately 2,130 PDLs housed in jail facilities throughout the MIMAROPA region. The Special Tactics and Response Team is also on standby for any incidents.
Currently, BJMP MIMAROPA manages 19 jails across the provinces of Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan. As part of the NACOCOW celebration, exhibits and bazaars featuring PDL-made livelihood products will be held, alongside painting and literary competitions, and motorcades displaying flying banners across their areas of responsibility.
The NACOCOW is an annual observance, established through Proclamation No. 551 issued by former President Fidel V. Ramos, which declares the last week of October as National Correctional Consciousness Week. (with reports from Joefrie Barbacena Anglo)
