Catapang sought Panganiban’s expertise on suitable agricultural plants for Bucor’s vast lands

Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. met yesterday with Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) Director Glen Panganiban, Ph D in an effort towards enhancing the agency’s commitment to support the government’s food security program by transforming its vacant lots into productive agricultural spaces and also engage incarcerated individuals in meaningful work.

“We have massive resources of vacant lots in our operating and prison farms nationwide that we really intend to develop and this initiative presents a dual opportunity: enhancing productivity while also aiding rehabilitation, offering a pathway for inmates to reintegrate into society post-release with newfound skills and experience,” Catapang said.

It aims to integrate persons deprived of liberty into this transformative process. By involving inmates as manpower, Bucor not only provides them with valuable skills but also fosters a sense of purpose and contribution to society, Catapang added.

The insights shared by Department of Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Export Development Philip Young who later joined the meeting via zoom further amplify Bucor’s potential role in the horticultural market. Young highlighted the need for specific crops, suggesting a tailored approach to plant selection that meets market demand while ensuring sustainability.

For his part, Panganiban said that the BPI is willing to collaborate with Bucor to provide its expertise and technology needed to help the Bucor innovation in governance and its proactive approach in utilizing available resources to contribute positively to the nation’s food security, a pressing issue in today’s socio-economic climate.

Through these initiatives, Bucor not only transforms its image but also significantly contributes to national goals, fostering a healthier society where rehabilitation and agricultural progress go hand in hand, Catapang said.