BuCor, UP sign MOU to exchange lands in Laguna, Palawan

The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and the University of the Philippines signed a memorandum of understanding on Friday, July 31, in Quezon City, to exchange land in Laguna and Palawan.

BuCor will use UP's Laguna-Quezon land grant for a Regional Prison Facility in Laguna, while UP will gain access to BuCor's land in Iwahig, Puerto Princesa City.

This partnership aims to maximize land use and address logistical needs as New Bilibid Prison prepares to close by 2028.

A Technical Working Group will explore the feasibility of this proposed land utilization.

Additionally, a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement was signed to facilitate education access and workforce development for BuCor personnel and persons deprived of liberty through UP's Massive Open Online Courses.

The University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAA) will coordinate with BuCor on information materials, inquiries, enrollment, participation, guidance during program implementation, and job placement services for PDLs who complete UPOU courses.