BuCor, IBP sign MOA on unified legal service for qualified inmates

The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) on Monday signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to promote access to justice and legal protection for qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDL).

According to BuCor, the memorandum of agreement was signed by BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. and IBP national president Allan Panolong.

BuCor said the MOA also promotes lawful remedies that may contribute to sentence mitigation and penal decongestion as well as institutionalize legal aid services within BuCor facilities.

“The agreement also covers applications related to good conduct time allowances (GCTA), preventive imprisonment credit, and time allowances for activities such as study, teaching, and mentoring within the facilities,” it said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the IBP will offer its legal services, including representation and advice on appeals and post-conviction remedies, provide assistance with petitions for commutation of sentence, pardon, parole, and executive clemency, and support PDLs in filing habeas corpus and other writs.

Aside from this, the IBP will also conduct legal seminars and educational programs to enhance staff awareness and understanding of legal matters in prison operations.

“Ito ang patunay na sa Pilipinas, ang hustisya ay umiiral at makatarungan,” Panolong said.—AOL, GMA News